Parmer County signs onto Deaf Smith County youth diversion plan under HB 4186

Parmer County commissioners approved an interlocal agreement Dec. 23 to participate in Deaf Smith County’s Youth Diversion Plan rather than develop a separate local plan.

County Clerk Susie Spring and staff explained that House Bill 4186 from the most recent legislative session requires municipal and justice courts to provide a youth diversion option. Deaf Smith County has an existing program and offered Parmer County the option to participate, which the county said would save time and money. Under the agreement Deaf Smith County would retain any administrative fees paid by parents; Parmer County would reimburse Deaf Smith only when the program requires a juvenile to be transported into Parmer County, paying mileage at IRS rates.

Commissioner Kirk Frye moved to approve the agreement; Commissioner Casey Russell seconded and the motion passed by majority vote.