Monroe County commissioners on May 1 ratified a 2025–2026 Juvenile Detention Alternatives Initiative (JDAI) grant contract totaling $75,000 to support diversion and community partnership work for youth.

Miss McAfee, who presented the item, said the funds come from the Indiana Department of Correction and represent the county’s 11th year receiving JDAI dollars; she said the program uses data to reduce secure detention and felony petitions. “This year's grant focuses again on building relationships with community partners and building opportunities for young people and families for diversion from the system entirely,” McAfee said.

Commissioner Madera and Commissioner Jones expressed support for the broad set of community partners involved. Commissioner Jones asked whether the funding source is stable; McAfee said initial cuts during the state budget process were restored and that the county demonstrated outcomes with data. The board ratified the grant by voice vote, 3-0.