Vermont Criminal Justice Council asks committee for three new training positions and one-time funds

Chris Kertel of the Vermont Criminal Justice Council told the Government Operations & Military Affairs Committee that the council is seeking three full-time positions and one-time funding to complete a multi-year curriculum rewrite and sustain statewide training programs.

Kertel said the council is asking for a curriculum-development position, a head canine trainer and an athletic trainer in addition to the governor’s recommended budget. "I appreciate the opportunity to come and identify a few things that are outside of our governor's recommended budget," he said.

The curriculum position is intended to manage a three-year rewrite, keep materials current with evolving best practices and accreditation standards, and expand online training. Kertel said the council originally requested $1.5 million for the curriculum rewrite from the Legislature but received $1.2 million; the council is now requesting an additional $300,000 in one-time funding to complete that work if the position is not funded. The curriculum position was listed at pay grade 25, described in the…