18. Juvenile Hall – Juvenile Services Center

The population of minors residing at Juvenile Hall often exceeds capacity. There have been repeated requests for funding to increase the capacity of the Hall. The first phase of expansion is underway and will provide necessary infrastructure for expanding the number of beds. Expansion of the existing physical plant is a prerequisite to expansion of services.

Despite the age of the facility and the overcrowded conditions, it is working. There are some indicators of success. These include: • Cooperation among the various groups such as the Probation Department, County Health Services, Office of Education, and other agencies and employees; • Long-term employees who demonstrate a caring commitment and are clearly invested in the success of their charges; • Parents and family of the juveniles who are included in the entire process. Due in part to space constraints, meals are served family style providing an opportunity to work with the juveniles on social skills, including table manners. Often, the superintendent and assistant superintendent have lunch with the juveniles. The Juvenile Court Judge also lunches with them regularly and has holiday dinners with them on occasion. This demonstrates a personal commitment on the part of the professionals who work at Juvenile Hall and helps to lessen the physical and financial shortfalls of the system. 2006-2007 San Luis Obispo County Grand Jury Report Responses Page: R-151