Eaton County's Ways & Means Committee made significant strides in supporting local law enforcement during their recent meeting, focusing on a crucial $250,000 state grant aimed at enhancing the prosecutor's office. The funding, awarded last fiscal year, was delayed but is now set to be utilized for vital improvements in victim communication and staff retention.

Eaton County Prosecutor Doug Lloyd presented the framework for the grant, emphasizing the need for a victim portal that would allow better communication between victims and advocates. This initiative is particularly important for victims who may not have stable housing but can still access support through their phones. "This will allow my victim advocates to talk to people through text and phone calls, providing essential support," Lloyd explained.

The grant also addresses ongoing staffing challenges within the prosecutor's office. Lloyd highlighted the difficulties in retaining qualified attorneys due to competitive salaries in neighboring communities. "I've been down two legal assistants and two attorneys for over a year," he noted, expressing concern for the well-being of his remaining staff who are overworked and underpaid.

The committee unanimously approved the motion to adopt the framework for the grant, marking a significant step toward improving the resources available to the prosecutor's office. As Lloyd stated, "This funding is a one-time offer, but it’s crucial for our community." The hope is that this initiative will pave the way for future funding opportunities to support the vital work of the prosecutor's office in Eaton County.