Court Improvement Project Committee

MinutesLaw Enforcement Center, Jamestown August 23, 2004

Members Present Judge Lee Christofferson, Chair Krista Andrews Larry Bernhardt Lisa Boxrud Gladys Cairns Connie Cleveland Dixie Evans Rita Hannesson Julie Hoffman Kate Kenna Pat Podoll Paul Ronningen Lanny Serrano Michon Sax Theresa Snyder Don Snyder Greg Wallace	Members Absent Vince Ament Karen Antelope Marilyn Kary Robert Freed Sandra Kuntz Judge William McLees Frank Myrick Marilyn Poitra
Staff Louie Hentzen

Susan Sisk

The minutes of the May 18, 2004, meeting, held in Jamestown, were approved.

The first item to be discussed was the Financial Status Report. Susan Sisk referred to the report she provided:

• Court Improvement Analysis of Funds as of 06/30/04
• Court Improvement Proposed Budget
• Court Improvement - Administration Costs
• Guardian ad Litem Expenses

Discussion was held concerning the $30,438 over budget for the GAL. Further discussion centered on whether the Supreme Court should take on expenses. Greg Wallace commented that federal dollars can disappear and we need to build in regular expenses as referenced in the plan. Judge Christofferson commented on the need for monies for ICWA training and evaluation. Susan indicated she would review the plan and make recommendations to Judge Christofferson and Paul Ronningen. Judge Christofferson asked if we should consider moving general fund money to cover UND contract. Numbers that were discussed were $7,000 for an evaluation component, $35,000 for contract, and $10,000 for ICWA.

Gladys Cairns reported an attorney certification and referenced the Child Abuse and Treatment Act. Connie Cleveland offered that she was not sure law-trained GALs have received training. Greg indicated that the ABA has guidelines for law-trained GALs. A committee was formed to make a presentation at the December meeting. The committee will consist of Krista Andrews, Connie Cleveland, Gladys Cairns, and Dixie Evans. Judge Christofferson suggested that $7,500 was needed for training.

An ICWA/ASFA forums schedule was handed out and discussed. A question was posed as to whether there is a contract to provide feedback to the Court Improvement Project Advisory Committee.

Krista Andrews reported that the UND law school will update the ICWA manual.

Dixie Evans reported on the Model GAL Project. She indicated that they continue to meet with GALs for ongoing training. A new form for appointing has been distributed in the west. Judge Christofferson inquired why Minot was keeping the Gal in the case for so long. An inquiry was made as to whether or not we can track drug and alcohol connection by GAL.

The next meeting was scheduled for December 13 or 17, 2004, by IVN from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon. There is a conflict for court staff on the 17th (Administrative Council meeting). December 13 would be preferred.