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Consent decree progresses, nears closure
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Posted on Mar 19 2009
Gov. Benigno R. Fitial reviewed the Commonwealth’s consent decree in a Cabinet meeting held earlier this week, asking for an update from Department of Community and Cultural Affairs Secretary Cecilia Taitano-Celes.
Celes reported that U.S. District Court Judge Alex R. Munson visited the Kagman Juvenile Detention Facility for nearly two hours Wednesday last week. Celes said the facility has made substantial improvements in the last seven months.
Celes said further progress is in the works with a teacher from the Public School System anticipated to begin on- site delivery of educational services within the next month. A part-time nurse will also supplement health care now being provided by paramedics at the Kagman Fire Station. An additional counselor is also anticipated for improved program services.
Celes also asked the consent decree coordinator to report on the progress. Assistant attorney general Edward Buckingham reported that the U.S. District Court has requested the parties to draft a proposed order closing the consent decree with respect to the juvenile facility.
Buckingham said he met Celes on her second day on the job.
“Secretary Celes began work as DCCA Secretary under very challenging circumstances. She worked hard to make positive changes that have moved the facility to major improvement. What is equally impressive is these improvements didn’t happen from the mainland or from off-island consultants. They were done with local talent, energy and leadership. This is a day that should be celebrated by the Commonwealth,” Buckingham said.
Buckingham reported that work continues on the other elements of the consent decree and the Commonwealth hopes the entire decree can be closed as an active case with concurrence by the U.S. Department of Justice within the next month or so. Upon case closure, the standards of the consent decree become permanent. The authority for the operation and management of the facilities will return to the Governor and his designated administrative personnel. [B][I](PR)[/I][/B]
