During a recent government meeting, community stakeholders voiced concerns regarding the rushed planning process for juvenile justice reforms in Santa Cruz County. Speakers emphasized the importance of involving local stakeholders and the community in discussions about solutions for at-risk youth, particularly in light of Santa Cruz County's homeless student population being significantly higher than the statewide average.

Veronica Miramontes, a finance and policy manager at Milpa and a prominent local leader, urged the board to delay decisions and allow for broader community engagement. She highlighted the need for a comprehensive approach that includes input from those directly affected by the juvenile justice system. Miramontes pointed out that many stakeholders, including those from the Juvenile Justice Coordinating Council, have not been adequately consulted.

Kayla Mathis, a youth programs director, echoed these sentiments, stressing the importance of listening to community voices to avoid hasty decisions that could negatively impact young people. She called for a more inclusive process that allows for community-led discussions about potential solutions.

In response to these concerns, county staff acknowledged the need for community involvement and outlined plans for upcoming meetings to engage stakeholders further. They indicated that a convening focused on juvenile justice issues is scheduled for November 8, where community members will have the opportunity to contribute to the conversation.

The board discussed the urgency of establishing a Secure Youth Treatment Facility (SYTF) to keep youth closer to home and reduce the number of young people sent to distant facilities. However, some members expressed hesitation about moving forward without further community input, suggesting that decisions be postponed until the first meeting in December.

Ultimately, the board agreed to proceed with the SYTF while postponing discussions about a proposed ranch camp until more community feedback could be gathered. This decision reflects a commitment to balancing the immediate needs of youth in the justice system with the necessity of community engagement in shaping future policies.