Title
A Proclamation In Recognition Of The One Year Anniversary Of The Hollywood Community Court.
Strategic Plan Focus
Quality of Life & Strong Neighborhoods
Body
Staff Recommends: Staff recommends the approval of this proclamation to honor the Hollywood Community Court’s contributions to justice reform and community stability, and to inspire continued support for innovative programs that uplift residents and neighborhoods.
Explanation:
This proclamation recognizes the 1-year anniversary of the Hollywood Community Court, highlighting its contributions to addressing homelessness and providing restorative justice within the community. The court’s collaborative efforts and compassionate approach have made a lasting impact on the lives of residents, with a focus on connecting individuals to services and resources tailored to their needs.
The Hollywood Community Court, established on February 18, 2024, was created as an innovative approach to combat homelessness in Hollywood by offering a compassionate alternative to traditional legal processes. The court serves both homeless individuals and low-level offenders-including first-time and repeat misdemeanants and those charged with violations of municipal ordinances. By focusing on restorative justice, the program addresses the root causes of behavior through therapeutic interventions and community service-based approaches, aiming for long-term solutions that promote dignity, stability, and self-sufficiency for participants.
The Hollywood Community Court is a joint initiative involving various local agencies, including:
• 17th Judicial Circuit Court of Florida
• City of Hollywood
• Broward County
• Broward County Clerk of Courts
• Public Defender’s Office (City of Hollywood)
• State Attorney’s Office (Broward County)
• Broward Sheriff’s Office
• Service and treatment providers such as Henderson Behavioral Health, The Caring Place-Broward Outreach Center, Taskforce Fore Ending Homelessness, Memorial Healthcare System, and OIC of South Florida.
Key Achievements:
• The Hollywood Community Court has successfully connected individuals to essential services, contributing to long-term stability and reduced recidivism.
• It has enhanced community cohesion by balancing accountability with compassion and ensuring participants receive the support they need to thrive.
• The court’s focus on restorative practices has fostered hope and resilience, offering tailored assistance to those experiencing homelessness and other challenges.
This proclamation serves as a tribute to the ongoing efforts of the City of Hollywood and its partners in fostering a compassionate and equitable approach to community challenges. It reaffirms the City’s commitment to public safety and social justice, while recognizing the importance of restorative solutions to build a stronger, more resilient community.
Fiscal Impact:
Approval of this resolution will not fiscally impact the City.
Recommended for inclusion on the agenda by:
Ryon Coote, Community Development Manager
Raelin Storey, Assistant City Manager
Josh Levy, Mayor