Juvenile Justice Board - 08.21.26

The Hillsborough County Juvenile Justice Advisory Board convened on August 21, 2026, to discuss several key issues impacting juvenile justice services in the county. A major focus was the planned closure of the Hillsborough Detention Center and the transition of youth to detention facilities in surrounding counties, raising concerns about access to family visitation, legal representation, and wraparound services. Board members expressed the need for an emergency work group to address the operational challenges and trauma risks associated with relocating youth out of county. Additionally, the board reviewed a pilot workforce development program aimed at supporting justice-involved youth aged 16 to 18 with employment and career readiness services. Public comments highlighted the importance of transparency, community involvement, and addressing systemic inequities in juvenile justice. No specific contract awards or procurement decisions were reported, but the discussion underscored potential impacts on service delivery and stakeholder resource allocation due to the detention center closure.