Sedgwick County will soon send a letter to the state's Juvenile Justice Oversight Committee, in opposition of the state's plan to cut funding for juvenile programs.
County leaders say if evidence-based program funding is eliminated on July 1, 2027, they will have no choice but to reduce staffing. Up to ten full-time positions would be on the chopping block, as well as the programming for high-risk juvenile offenders and children. It amounts to an approximate $4.7 million reduction, affecting over 1500 individuals.
Commissioner Ryan Baty said the proposed cuts would be devastating.
Any cuts implemented before the end of 2027 would impact the County’s adopted 2027 budget allocations and performance.
