Juvenile justice hearing is Oct. 29 in Tampa

Former Florida Lt. Gov. Frank Brogan is chair of the Blueprint Commission, created by Florida’s Department of Juvenile Justice. The panel was formed in response to several concerns such as repeat juvenile offenders, and the overrepresentation of minority youths and the alarming growth of girls in the juvenile justice population.

The Commission will bring together citizens and juvenile justice stakeholders who care deeply about the public safety and at-risk youth of Florida. The role of the Commission is to examine Florida’s juvenile justice system and offer recommendations to address key issues such as ensuring public safety, providing treatment and intervention for troubled youth, and maintaining a fair and balanced approach to assessing the needs of all youth.

The Blueprint Commission has scheduled a series of public hearings in six cities across the state. The Commission will invite input from stakeholders from all aspects of juvenile justice programs and services, as well as citizens of Florida. This hearing will focus on the need for smaller, community-based residential care as an alternative to larger institutions.

When: Oct. 29 1 to 4 p.m.: Opening, Welcome and Presentations 4:30 to 6:30 p.m.: Public Comment

Where: University Area Community Development Center, 14013 N 22nd St. Suite A, Tampa