LIVE @ Justice Resource Advisory Council (JRAC) Meeting 12/6/19

Buncombe County JRAC Meeting Recap: Strengthening Collaboration and Focusing on Future Priorities

On December 6, 2019, the Buncombe County Justice Resource Advisory Council (JRAC) convened to discuss updates to its governing structure and outline priorities for the coming year. The meeting, attended by representatives from various justice system agencies and community organizations, centered on modernizing the council's operations to enhance its effectiveness in addressing local criminal justice challenges.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to revising the JRAC's governing documents. Currently operating under a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that expires periodically, the council agreed to transition to a more permanent set of bylaws. This change will provide greater stability and longevity for the JRAC, eliminating the need for renewal every two years. Alongside this shift, members decided to move from monthly meetings to a bi-monthly schedule, aiming for more focused discussions and efficient use of everyone’s time. The council also discussed refining its leadership structure, considering the appointment of a Chair (potentially selected by the County Manager) and a Vice-Chair elected by JRAC members, alongside the creation of a steering committee to facilitate more frequent and targeted discussions. Finally, JRAC will expand its membership from 16 to 23 partners, incorporating vital representation from the City of Asheville, Health and Human Services, and a representative from the Coordinated Community Response program (addressing domestic violence and sexual assault).

Discussions extended beyond governance to encompass future focus areas. The council explored opportunities in Law Enforcement Assistance Diversion programs, Restorative Justice initiatives, and Driver's License Restoration – particularly collaborating with the District Attorney’s office to streamline this process. A key theme throughout was a desire for data-driven decision-making, with the council recognizing the need to evaluate current programs and explore how to track outcomes using existing data systems like Apricot. Community members present raised concerns about ensuring transparency and inclusivity in the council’s work, as well as addressing potential impacts on agency autonomy. The importance of incorporating racial equity and community engagement into the council’s objectives was strongly emphasized, reflecting a commitment to addressing systemic issues within the justice system.

Several key action items emerged from the meeting, signaling a clear path forward for the JRAC. Staff will now draft revised bylaws incorporating feedback received during the meeting. Tiffany (staff) is tasked with developing a plan to evaluate current programs and present findings, ensuring that interventions are effective. The council will also explore ways to incorporate community members more directly into the decision-making process, fostering greater transparency and responsiveness. A steering committee will be formed to meet more frequently and guide the council’s work, ensuring focused attention on key priorities.

Looking ahead, residents can expect a presentation by Saul Paul, a former inmate sharing his experiences and advocating for restorative justice. Training sessions on the Public Safety Assessment (PSA) are also planned for court partners. The next JRAC meeting is tentatively scheduled for January and February 2020, with details to be confirmed. These changes represent a significant step towards strengthening the JRAC's ability to advise and support improvements within Buncombe County’s criminal justice system, ultimately aiming for a more equitable and effective approach to public safety.