Prosecutor asks commissioners to create part‑time victim services director; board approves using attorney funding

The county prosecutor (introduced at the meeting) asked commissioners to formally create a part‑time victim services director — described as a victim advocate — and to transfer funds previously reserved for a partial-year deputy prosecutor to cover the position’s pay.

The prosecutor said filings have not returned to pre‑COVID levels, making an additional attorney post difficult to justify. He argued a dedicated advocate would improve communication for crime victims, help them seek restitution, ensure they are informed about hearings, and relieve prosecutors from routine victim contact that otherwise consumes attorney time. He provided a full-time job description previously drafted and said the county already has physical space to accommodate a part‑time position.

The prosecutor proposed a flexible hourly range for a part‑time hire (acknowledging the candidate pool may range from entry-level to experienced practitioners) and said funding the position from county general funds and reallocated prosecutor-office dollars would not increase net general-fund spending beyond the existing allocation. Commissioners discussed hours, scope (focusing on victim responsibilities rather than other administrative duties), and recruitment options, including outreach to local students or experienced candidates. The commission voted to approve the transfer and establish the part‑time victim services director position.

The prosecutor said creating the role should both improve compliance with constitutional obligations to notify victims and free attorneys for courtroom work and legal preparation.