Billings Municipal Court currently operates three problem solving treatment courts solely on grant funding.  In 2011, the DUI grant funding was transferred to District Court for establishing an 'Impaired Driving Court,' thereby ending specific funds to treat individuals convicted of misdemeanor DUI offenses.  Funding has been awarded to Billings Municipal Court by the Office of Justice Programs at the Department of Justice, Bureau of Justice Assistance to specifically fund a DUI program to further treat these individuals on a more specialized treatment continuum.

The issue before Council is whether to accept or decline these grant funds totaling $350,000 over three years awarded to Billings Municipal Court, in furtherance of the treatment court's mission.

The City Council may:

• accept the Department of Justice monies, or
• decline this award.

This grant provides specific funding to treat individuals convicted of misdemeanor DUI offenses within the City of Billings.  The funds from this grant will allow Billings Adult Misdemeanor Treatment Courts (BAMTC) to obtain specialized treatment for these offenders and will total $350,00 over the period of three years.  The City's soft match contribution would include the hours on which team members, (i.e. prosecutor, public defender, pro tem judge) spend in court.  One 1.0 FTE Case Manager will be employed by the City of Billings, however salary and benefits are paid with the grant funds.  The treatment professionals, evaluator, and probation officer are secured through contract and paid by the grant. 

Staff recommends that Council accept the $350,000 US Department of Justice grant and authorize Mayor Hanel to sign all necessary documents.