UPDATE: Kalamazoo County Prosecutor Jeff Getting has sharply criticized a new proposal that could relocate his office, calling it a “terrible idea.” The proposal, discussed during a meeting on January 20, 2024, aims to reconfigure the $94 million courthouse facility that opened just two years ago, raising concerns about accessibility for thousands involved in court proceedings.
The prosecutor’s office managed over 30,000 scheduled court events last year, and Getting emphasized the importance of proximity to the courtrooms. Moving the office off-site would complicate processes for victims, attorneys, and law enforcement. “If we move across the street to the new administration building, it adds steps to the process,” Getting stated emphatically during the meeting.
The need for such drastic measures arises as Kalamazoo County considers adding another judge. With limited space at the current locations, officials are exploring options, but Getting insists that disrupting the existing setup would create unnecessary complications for the next 75 years. “We don’t need to be across the street,” he said, highlighting that the current arrangement was designed with input from his staff to best serve the community.
Commissioners at the board meeting also expressed concerns about potential costs and the need for fiscal responsibility. Chair Jen Strebs emphasized the importance of being both financially sound and strategically nimble. Discussions included possible adjustments to the proposed $380 million facilities plan, with some members advocating for a reduction in expenditures.
Getting plans to engage with each commissioner individually to discuss the future of the courthouse and available options, including potentially relocating civil court functions to minimize disruption. His strong stance reflects a broader concern about maintaining efficient access to justice for the community.
As these discussions unfold, the community’s response will be crucial. The potential move has sparked significant debate among stakeholders, including victim advocates and attorneys who rely on the courthouse’s current configuration.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as Kalamazoo County leaders weigh the implications of this proposed change. The decisions made in the coming days could have lasting effects on how justice is served in the community.
