Summit County approves converting part-time Children’s Justice Center victim services role to full time, time-limited through state contract

The Summit County Council voted unanimously to convert an existing part‑time Children’s Justice Center (CJC) victim services coordinator position into a full‑time, time‑limited family‑advocacy role funded through an increased state contract. Ted Walker, director of the Summit County Children’s Justice Center, told the council the change responds to growing caseloads and will streamline follow-up and family support.

Walker said the CJC — established locally in 2012 — has seen a 78% increase in cases over the past five calendar years. The center previously used part‑time victim advocacy resources from county attorneys and Park City Police; converting to a full‑time role adds 11 hours per week and full‑time benefits. Walker said recent state contract funding increases recognized the center as a full‑functioning center and that the contract dollars available through the state will fully fund the new full‑time time‑limited position through the current contract period, which runs through June 30, 2027. Contracts renew on a multi‑year cadence and are adjusted annually based on caseloads, Walker said.

David Warnock (county staff) confirmed a new job description has been approved through internal processes and that finance and human resources have reviewed the proposal. Councilors thanked CJC staff for their work; several members asked about continuity after 2027 and Walker said the center expects the state funding formula and contract renewal process to continue but noted continued reliance on legislative appropriations.

The council approved the charter amendment and position change by voice vote.