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Layton introduces new victim services coordinator; VOCA-funded housing support could shrink
Summary
The new victim services coordinator, Chrislyn Kennard, described services funded through VOCA (court navigation, protective orders, housing assistance). Staff said the program assisted 316 victims in one quarter and paid $4,844 in housing aid; Kennard warned of a likely ~20% funding cut that could reduce housing assistance.
Council introduced Chrislyn Kennard as Layton’s new victim services coordinator and invited her to outline the Victim of Crime Act (VOCA)–funded program. Kennard described the program’s focus — primarily victims of misdemeanor crimes with occasional involvement in felony cases via the county — and summarized services: court navigation and explanations of the legal process, help filing protective orders, safety planning, accompaniment to law-enforcement and prosecution interviews, assistance obtaining public benefits, and help preparing victim-impact statements for sentencing.
Kennard said the program uses VOCA funds to support a housing assistance component and other immediate safety measures: “Our housing programs late paid out $4,844,” she said, and staff assisted 316 victims from July through September. She recounted a recent domestic-violence case that went to trial and resulted in a guilty verdict on three counts; the victim advocate and team supported the victim and children throughout the process.
Council members probed funding stability. Kennard told the council she expects a possible funding decrease of about 20% during upcoming allocations and warned that the program’s housing line (about $40,000 annually) would be vulnerable if that reduction occurs. Staff said they are pursuing a county grant used previously and will apply in the next grant cycle to offset cuts.
Why this matters: The VOCA-funded program provides direct, often time-sensitive supports (temporary housing aid, safety equipment, accompaniment to court) that can affect victims’ ability to participate in the justice process. A cut to VOCA allocations would reduce capacity for housing assistance and other immediate needs.
Next steps: Staff will apply for county grant funding and continue fiscal oversight to maximize the available VOCA dollars. The council did not take formal action; staff said they will return with updates on grant applications and funding when available.
