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Santaquin told county victim‑services contract will rise from about $15,000 to $33,000; staff: limited local alternatives
Summary
Council reviewed a proposed contract amendment with Utah County for crime‑victim services that would raise the city's share from roughly $15,000 a year to about $33,000; staff said the county provides expertise the city cannot reasonably replicate and that state law requires victim‑services availability.
Santaquin City staff told the council the city—s contract with Utah County for victim‑services advocacy would increase from about $15,000 a year to roughly $33,000 under the county—s proposed terms.
Jason explained the change as the county catching up after years without regular increases and said the city has limited ability to provide the service itself. “We don't have enough manpower or the expertise to provide our own victim's advocate services,” Jason said. He added that the city has sought concessions from Utah County but was told “no.”
Why it matters: the contract funds advocates who assist victims of crimes — for example, in domestic violence cases — with housing, placement and protective services. The increase would add a recurring cost to the city budget and was raised while the council reviewed the tentative budget.
Staff said the contract is administered through the county and that state requirements inform local responsibilities; staff framed the county contract as effectively the city—s only practical option for providing mandated services. Jason said the increase represents several years of deferred adjustments rather than an annual 4% raise compounded recently.
Next steps: Council discussion did not produce a formal vote on the contract amendment during the work session. Staff indicated the matter is on the upcoming agenda as Resolution 0504 for formal council consideration.
