Genesee County, MI — On Wednesday afternoon, the Genesee County Board of Commissioners, alongside members of the 7th Circuit Court, unveiled the long-awaited new Juvenile Justice Center in Flint Township.

The $27-million facility will officially open its doors in late July, as the staff transitions from the old facility next door.

Genesee County Commission Chair James Avery spoke about the facility and what it means for the entire community.

“As we cut this ribbon today, let us re-commit ourselves to the work ahead,” Avery said. “Let us be proud of the fact that Genesee County is now, and has been for years, a model for juvenile justice. Let us stake our claim today that this facility will further our mission to empower young people to transform their lives for the betterment of our entire community.”

Construction of the 54,000 square foot facility, on Pasadena Avenue in District 8, began in September 2020. District 8 Commissioner Dale K. Weighill said the new facility represents the best of Genesee County and its dedication to young people.

“Genesee County, and my colleagues on the Board of Commissioners, have an unwavering commitment to youth empowerment,” he said. “We remain dedicated to restorative practices that aim to heal and rehabilitate youth to promote safe communities across the county.”

More than 100 people were in attendance for the ceremony, including many of the visionaries who made this new facility a reality, including Chief Judge David J. Newblatt and Presiding Judge (Family Division) John A. Gadola.

In addition, we owe a special thanks to Rhonda Ihm, Family Division Administrator with the Genesee County 7th Circuit Court, for all her hard work planning the event.