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Judge urges board to support and expand Clare–Gladwin recovery court and veterans treatment program
Summary
A judge and program staff briefed commissioners on the Clare–Gladwin Recovery Court and Veterans Treatment program, reporting 136 graduates, 42 current participants and nearly $1.1 million in grant funds raised since inception; they asked the board to consider using opioid grant dollars to expand services and close gaps in pretrial services.
Judge John (presenting) told the board the Clare–Gladwin Recovery Court and Veterans Treatment program has been operating locally since about 2011 and follows a collaborative, problem-solving-court model. He described the program's structure: an 18–24 month, four-phase regimen combining judicial oversight, treatment, case management, employment assistance and community supports, with regular team meetings and frequent participant appearances before the judge.
The judge said the program has produced 136 graduates and currently serves 42 participants (33 non-veterans and nine veterans). He described the program as regional—hosting participants from neighboring counties—and said it has attracted about $1.1 million in grant funding since inception. Locally, he said the program's operating funds support roughly 30 participant slots via grants, creating a shortfall because 42 participants are currently enrolled; he estimated local annual contributions in the range of $7,500.
The judge and program staff emphasized outcomes: a high rate of driver's-license reinstatement among participants, employment placements and reduced recidivism compared with local and state averages. They described the program's strict accountability—including frequent drug testing, court supervision and sanctions when participants relapse—and the emotional impact of graduations.
Presenters asked the board to consider directing opioid-settlement or opioid-specific grant dollars toward expanding the recovery-court program and closing two service gaps: (1) pretrial services to reduce the time between arrest and sentencing, and (2) a pathway for individuals who need help before criminal charges are filed. The judge said these adjustments would reduce waiting lists and improve quick access to services.
The board did not take a funding action at the meeting; presenters offered to provide brochures and to return with further requests after discussions with county staff.
