Judges rally to protect vital treatment court funding

During a recent government meeting, Circuit Court Judge Suzanne O'Neil addressed the proposed budget amendment that seeks to cut funding for the Operating While Intoxicated (OWI) treatment court by $107,528. Judge O'Neil, who also chairs the Bridal Justice Coordinating Council in Marathon County, emphasized that this reduction would adversely affect not only the OWI court but also the Drug Recovery Treatment Court, which relies on shared resources.

In her remarks, Judge O'Neil urged the board to reject the amendment, highlighting a letter signed by the county's judges that advocates for continued full funding of all treatment court programs. She noted that at a previous council meeting, there was unanimous agreement to recommend maintaining full funding and suggested that any surplus be directed towards addressing the treatment needs of inmates at the Marathon County Jail.

The judge presented data demonstrating the success of the treatment courts, which have helped participants transform their lives and reintegrate into the community. She acknowledged the need for ongoing improvement and adaptation to the evolving landscape of addiction treatment, stating that the judges are committed to implementing evidence-based practices.

Additionally, in response to Supervisor Sandalski's suggestions, the council plans to establish an executive oversight committee to regularly review best practices and enhance program effectiveness. Judge O'Neil reiterated the critical role of treatment courts in combating the substance use disorder crisis, asserting that these programs have outperformed the statewide average in success rates.

Concluding her address, Judge O'Neil expressed gratitude for the board's past support and urged them to continue funding the treatment court programs, which she believes are vital for addressing the ongoing substance use disorder epidemic in Marathon County.