County to bring justice programs in-house after contractor’s 90-day notice; board approves new positions

Portage County will bring justice programs currently run by a contractor into county government after the contractor issued a 90‑day termination notice. Courtney Kostachowski, Portage County’s newly hired justice programs director, told the county board that JusticePoint gave notice and “their last day will be September 12,” prompting the county to propose operating the programs in‑house.

Kostachowski said county staff worked with human resources and finance and concluded the county can run the program “for about the same cost.” The proposal the board approved authorizes three full‑time equivalent positions and two part‑time positions to staff the programs. The resolution authorizing those positions was moved by Supervisor Oke, seconded by Supervisor Schwartz, and passed on a voice vote.

Kostachowski outlined staffing and continuity plans: JusticePoint currently had five full‑time and one part‑time staff serving Portage County, she said, and the county proposes a smaller in‑house team (three full time and two part time) while reviewing program structure with an ad hoc committee convened through the county’s justice coalition. She told the board the ad hoc committee—working with Judge Baker and other partners—will review existing policies and programs to determine what to keep and what to adapt.

Board members asked about budget risk, recruitment timelines and program continuity. Kostachowski said the county will monitor costs closely and prioritized filling core full‑time positions first; she said staff will recruit through local educational partners and that some positions may be held open while the county evaluates workloads. When asked whether bringing the program in‑house would cut services, Kostachowski said the intention is to maintain existing programs and that the ad hoc committee will recommend adjustments if necessary.

Multiple supervisors, including supervisors who have attended treatment‑court graduations, spoke in support of continuing and strengthening the programs. Judge Baker and other officials praised Kostachowski’s hiring and the county’s ability to be more responsive and innovative with in‑house administration.

Less critical: Kostachowski said JusticePoint had served as a hub for several counties and that once the contract ends, JusticePoint’s presence in Portage County will cease. The board also heard that the other potential contractor responses to prior requests for proposals were priced substantially higher than the county’s current contract.