A new youth facility proposed in Vergennes, Vermont, will not accommodate older teens aged 18 and 19, following community feedback and state officials’ reassessment. The Green Mountain Youth Campus aims to provide therapeutic support for younger, justice-involved youth, but the exclusion of older teens has sparked discussions about the implications for local youth services.
Key Takeaways
- The Green Mountain Youth Campus will focus on youths aged 12 to 18, excluding those aged 18 and 19.
- The decision comes after community concerns about housing older teens at the facility.
- The facility is intended to replace the now-closed Woodside juvenile detention center.
- State officials are revising plans to enhance vocational program offerings.
- The proposal coincides with ongoing debates about Vermont’s "Raise the Age" statute.
Background of the Green Mountain Youth Campus
The Green Mountain Youth Campus is designed as a treatment center for youths who have been involved in the justice system. Initially, the facility was set to include 14 beds for youths aged 12 to 18, with plans to expand to 22 beds to accommodate older teens. However, after consultations with local stakeholders, state officials decided to revert to the original plan, focusing solely on younger adolescents.
Community Concerns and Stakeholder Feedback
The decision to exclude older teens was influenced by feedback from Vergennes residents and officials. Concerns were raised about the potential impact of housing older youths, with local leaders expressing surprise at the initial proposal to include them. Mark Koenig, chair of the Vergennes Ad Hoc Committee, emphasized the need for clarity in the facility’s purpose and the age range of its residents.
- Key Concerns Raised by Residents:
- Potential risks associated with housing older teens alongside younger youths.
- Uncertainty about the facility’s impact on community safety and resources.
- Requests for state support in public safety and infrastructure improvements.
Changes to Facility Plans
In response to community feedback, the state Department for Children and Families (DCF) has made several adjustments to the facility’s design and operational plans. While the number of beds will remain at 14, officials are focusing on enhancing vocational training programs to better serve the needs of the youth population.
Tyler Allen, the adolescent services director at DCF, stated that the decision to limit the age range was made to ensure the facility effectively meets the needs of its intended population without overextending its resources. He noted that the changes reflect a commitment to working collaboratively with community stakeholders.
Legislative Context: "Raise the Age" Statute
The proposal for the Green Mountain Youth Campus comes at a time when Vermont’s "Raise the Age" statute is under scrutiny. This law aims to keep 18 and 19-year-olds charged with minor offenses out of adult prisons and in family court. However, the current administration is seeking to repeal this statute, which could leave some youths facing adult incarceration.
- Current Status of the Law:
- 18-year-olds charged with misdemeanors are currently processed in family court.
- The law was set to expand to include 19-year-olds, but implementation may be delayed.
Conclusion
The proposed Green Mountain Youth Campus represents a significant shift in how Vermont addresses the needs of justice-involved youth. While the exclusion of older teens may alleviate some community concerns, it raises questions about the future of youth services in the state. As discussions continue, local leaders are advocating for clear communication and support from state officials to ensure the facility meets the needs of Vergennes residents and the youth it aims to serve.
