LIVE @ Buncombe County Justice Resource Advisory Council (JRAC) 10/02/20

Buncombe County JRAC Meeting Recap: Charting a Course for Criminal Justice Reform

On October 2, 2020, the Buncombe County Justice Resource Advisory Council (JRAC) convened to continue developing a strategic plan aimed at improving the county’s criminal justice system. While technical difficulties initially impacted participation, the meeting proved valuable in laying the groundwork for future improvements and outlining a vision for the system's future. The meeting, open to the public, focused primarily on collaborative discussion rather than formal votes due to a lack of full quorum.

A key element of the meeting was the continued discussion surrounding the JRAC’s strategic planning process, building on work initiated in previous sessions. Council members engaged in a robust discussion to define a shared vision for the criminal justice system in Buncombe County by 2025. This ambitious vision centers on eliminating disparities within the system, particularly those affecting racial and ethnic minorities; expanding diversion programs that offer alternatives to traditional court processes; fostering a coordinated legislative effort; and ultimately, reducing both the jail population and overall involvement in the criminal justice system. Members collaboratively documented their ideas for achieving this vision using a shared online document, demonstrating a commitment to collective problem-solving.

Discussions highlighted the importance of addressing systemic issues and prioritizing preventative measures. Several members emphasized the urgent need to tackle racial and ethnic disparities, while others underscored the importance of investing in community engagement programs and bolstering resources for the public defender’s office. A recurring theme was the necessity of addressing underlying issues like mental health and substance abuse, recognizing their significant impact on individuals’ involvement in the criminal justice system. The council also discussed the value of data analysis and reporting to identify areas needing improvement, emphasizing a commitment to evidence-based decision-making.

While no formal votes were taken due to the quorum requirement, a few key actions were confirmed. The minutes from a previous meeting were approved without objection, demonstrating the council's commitment to maintaining accurate records. Furthermore, an electronic ballot will be distributed among JRAC members to elect a new Vice Chair, ensuring the council’s leadership structure remains robust.

Looking ahead, the JRAC's strategic planning process will continue over the next three sessions, with further refinement of goals and actionable steps. The input gathered during this meeting will be shared with the JRAC Steering Committee for review and feedback, ensuring a comprehensive approach to planning. The council also committed to providing regular updates to the broader JRAC group as the strategic plan develops, keeping stakeholders informed of progress. The next meeting is scheduled for December 4th, providing an opportunity to continue this important work.

This ongoing effort by the JRAC represents a significant commitment to improving fairness, efficiency, and effectiveness within Buncombe County’s criminal justice system. By focusing on prevention, addressing disparities, and fostering collaboration, the JRAC aims to create a system that better serves all residents of Buncombe County.