OJJ says pending list is shrinking as Jetson intake unit prepares to open

Deputy Secretary Courtney Myers (OJJ) updated judges on secure and nonsecure placement capacity and capital plans. Myers said OJJ continues to reduce its pending list and has a near‑term intake expansion: the 'old side' of Jetson will be repurposed to provide a 24‑bed intake unit expected in mid‑to‑late October.

Myers also described plans for a larger new campus (72 beds: 36 intake/36 secure) for which construction contracting is advancing. The new reception/diagnostic center is intended to centralize short‑term evaluations (under 30 days) and improve statewide intake processes so that children can be evaluated before being dispersed to appropriate placements.

OJJ staff said renovations and staffing are proceeding for a Vernon Parish renovation that could add additional secure beds; the agency also described vocational and educational programming, fiber‑optic upgrades, and partnerships with community colleges for training and workforce pipelines.

Why it matters: Added diagnostic and intake capacity aims to shorten waits for evaluation and placement, reduce overcrowding at other facilities, and improve matches between youths' clinical needs and placements.