Released: May 5, 2021
During its May 5 public meeting, Delaware County Council announced it will move to create a new oversight board for the Juvenile Detention Center in the aftermath of the closure of the facility in Lima. Built on the successful model of the Jail Oversight Board, which oversees the George W. Hill Correctional Facility, the new 10-member Delaware County Board of Managers of Juvenile Detention will consist of three members of Council, the County Controller, and six members of the public. Three members of the public will be appointed by the Council Chair and three by the President Judge of Delaware County’s Court of Common Pleas.
“The Board of Managers of Juvenile Detention will help ensure that as the County rebuilds its juvenile justice system following abuse allegations that prompted shutting down the Lima youth detention facility, it is being done correctly and with public transparency and increased accountability,” said Delaware County Councilman Kevin Madden, who also serves as the Chair of the Jail Oversight Board. “County Council is committed to making the time in County custody an opportunity for these children and youths to reset their lives in a positive and productive direction.”
The ordinance creating the new Board of Managers will be introduced at Council’s May 19 meeting, with a second reading and approval projected for June 2, which would allow the Board to begin its important work as soon as June 14.
To be prepared to begin work immediately, members of the public who wish to serve on the Board are urged to quickly submit their applications for consideration. Applications for the position may be submitted to: DelcoBoards@co.delaware.pa.us
Applicants are encouraged to include details about why they would like to serve and their qualifications. No financial compensation will be given. Meeting times and locations will be determined by the Board.