This week, the Marshall County Commissioners passed on the first reading an ordinance establishing the Court Appointed Special Advocates Department (CASA) in the county.
CASA has operated as a not-for-profit entity in Marshall County since 2001 under the direction of the late Circuit Court Judge Michael Cook and has been governed by a board of directors.
At this time, it is believed that the long-term stability of Marshall County’s CASA program would be best served by transitioning the program to be a part of the County government.
The current Executive Director is Chastity Keller, and she recruits local volunteers who are trained citizens who advocate for the best interests of children who have experienced abuse or neglect. These volunteers gather information, provide written reports to the court, and offer testimony to assist judges in making informed decisions that support the child's future.
County Attorney Sean Surrisi said this will transition Director Keller into a county employee position. It will also create a budget with annual funding allocated by the County Council.
The CASA Director will answer the Judge of the Marshall Circuit Court, as she has been doing. The CASA Department will start on January 1, 2026.
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