National experts have recognized Salt Lake County’s Criminal Justice Advisory Council (CJAC) as one of the strongest coordinating councils in the United States following a recent multi-day assessment by the Justice Management Institute. The non-profit organization led a visiting team to the county from July 6 through July 8, 2026, to evaluate the council's effectiveness and systemic impact.
National Recognition for Performance
A report released by the Justice Management Institute (JMI) identified the CJAC as a high-performing council characterized by a clear systemic purpose and a culture of respectful problem-solving. The assessment noted that the council possesses current foundational documents, experienced members, and an exceptional staff team—qualities that JMI stated many other coordinating councils fail to achieve.
According to the report, the CJAC distinguishes itself by convening appropriate leaders to address the most difficult challenges facing the county's justice system. The institute further emphasized that the council grounds its work in evidence-based practices, a level of rigor that sets it apart from similar organizations across the country. During the evaluation period, the JMI team toured essential county facilities, including the local jail and the Crisis Care Center, to observe operations firsthand.
A Model for National Standards
The evaluation concluded on July 8 with a formal CJAC meeting where members reviewed the report's findings. Salt Lake County District Attorney Sim Gill, who serves as the CJAC Chair, stated that the council continues to lead the nation in developing collaborative solutions for complex criminal and behavioral justice challenges.
"We rely on innovation, data, and solutions-based outcomes that bring sustainable systemic change," Gill said. He added that the CJAC has served as a model for Utah and is now serving as a national model.
Breaking Down Systemic Barriers
Salt Lake County Mayor Jenny Wilson praised the council's ability to bridge gaps between disparate agencies, noting that the group has successfully broken down barriers by bringing together law enforcement, courts, and behavioral health teams.
"I have been honored to serve on CJAC for many years and to see the difference it has made in our community," Wilson said. She noted that the council's collaborative structure allows members to find answers even when they disagree on specific issues.
Data-Driven Decision Making
The council's strength is also attributed to its specialized data capabilities. The CJAC maintains its own dedicated data team, which develops analytical tools utilized by various county agencies to inform daily decision-making processes.
Anndrea Wild, Director of the Salt Lake County Office of Homelessness and Criminal Justice Reform, emphasized that the council's success stems from a refusal to work in silos.
"This assessment reflects something I believe deeply: that no single agency can solve homelessness or justice system challenges alone," Wild said. She credited the strength of the council to partners such as judges, prosecutors, defenders, and community leaders who choose to think across systems. Wild also noted that the JMI review provides a roadmap for continued improvement.
A Legacy of Coordination
Established in 1997, the CJAC is the oldest council of its kind in the United States. For nearly three decades, it has functioned as an advisory committee to the Salt Lake County Mayor and County Council, tasked with developing public policy to make the criminal justice system more responsive and efficient.
The council's composition includes a wide array of stakeholders, such as law enforcement, prosecutors, defense counsel, corrections, courts, and human services. According to county records, the board consists of 30 members, many of whom receive their appointments based on their professional roles within the justice system.
Statewide Reform Framework
The CJAC operates through various active work groups that focus on addressing specific gaps or issues within the community and the criminal justice system. These groups are designed to provide informed recommendations to the main council.
The structure of these coordinating councils in Utah is part of a broader state-wide effort. Following the 2021 Justice Reinvestment Initiative (JRI) Listening Tour, the legislature introduced Criminal Justice Coordinating Councils (CJCCs) through Senate Bill 179 in 2022. This legislation allows counties to develop localized strategic plans tailored to their unique needs for justice reform and recidivism reduction.
Mandated Strategic Planning
Under Utah law, each council is required to implement a strategic plan that includes mapping system resources, creating data-sharing plans, and establishing objectives for reducing recidivism. These plans also focus on community reintegration, connecting individuals leaving jail or prison with essential services such as housing, employment, and mental health treatment.
Each year, councils must submit written reports to the Commission on Criminal and Juvenile Justice (CCJJ) by November 30, detailing their progress and providing data on their impact on the local justice system.
