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Participants, graduates urge commissioners to retain Reflejo specialty court as grant is considered
Summary
Dozens of participants, family members and staff spoke in support of the Reflejo specialty court during public comment while the court considered related grant applications; the court approved the submitted grant applications and emphasized oversight and continuity irrespective of personnel changes.
A sustained public-comment period filled Commissioners Court with participants, alumni and staff who told personal stories about the Reflejo specialty court's role in recovery and community safety.
Terry Benavidez, speaking for Judge Rosie Speedlink Gonzalez, asked the court "not defund Reflejo Court," describing it as "innovative and award winning" and saying it had "saved the lives of almost 50 graduates." Chase Petty, a program participant, recounted his recovery and singled out court staff and volunteers: "This program has made me into a better person," he said.
Several speakers, including treatment professionals and program staff, cited program outcomes and high success rates for graduates. Commissioners acknowledged the testimonies, affirmed support for specialty courts, and said oversight and performance measurement would continue as grant applications were evaluated. The court proceeded to approve a package of grant applications in support of specialty-court services.
