Thurston County Law & Justice Council updates membership, adds tribe rep

The Thurston Board of County Commissioners recently approved the motion to update the membership and charter of the Thurston County Law & Justice Council during its meeting on Tuesday, February 6.

Criminal Justice Regional Program Manager Leah Landon said the update adds the membership of three different entities, which includes a representative from the Squaxin Island Tribe, a representative from the Thurston County Racial Equity Council, and the Thurston County Criminal Justice Regional Program Manager.

Landon said the Thurston County Law Justice Council unanimously approved to add the new positions to the voting membership.

“The purpose of the council is to provide an inter-jurisdictional forum for consideration of initiatives and resources to improve criminal justice services, enhance public safety and fairness and reduce crime throughout Thurston County,” explained Landon.

Additionally, the updated charter introduces a three-year term limit for representatives from community-based organizations, aligning the council's governance with other county boards and commissions.

The establishment of local law and justice councils in Washington State dates back to 1987, aimed at addressing various aspects of the criminal justice system at the county level.

Thurston County created its Law & Justice Council in 1993, as outlined in Resolution No. 10412, to respond to the legislation.