The city of Peoria is now partnering with the West Valley Regional Veterans Court to help veterans.

Peoria City Council Dec. 17 unanimously voted to enter into an intergovernmental agreement with the city of Glendale to participate in the West Valley Regional Veterans Court. The goal of this partnership is to assist veterans in reconnecting with society by providing treatment, accountability and support, according to a news release.

The WVRVC is a program operated out of Glendale City Court that helps veterans involved in the justice system by connecting them with access to resources, such as VA benefits they earned while serving, supportive housing, appropriate counseling, employment, and other benefits. By addressing the complex issues that veterans face through a non-adversarial approach, the program can help reduce recidivism and increase public safety, the release said.

"We are excited to partner with the WVRVC and provide our veterans with the support they need to improve their situation so they are less likely to find themselves back in the justice system," Peoria Judge John Tatz stated in the release. "Through this program, we can address underlying issues and connect participants with job training, mental health treatment, and other services that can improve their quality of life. This represents Peoria’s commitment to supporting our veterans and addressing quality of life offenses through a collaborative approach."

Under the agreement, Peoria Municipal Court may refer cases to the WVRVC at Glendale City Court based on established eligibility criteria. The city will be charged a flat fee per case referred, which is based on the average projected cost per case. However, there may be grants available to help offset some of those costs.

The goal of this partnership aligns with Peoria's priorities for public safety enhancements while maintaining core services and service levels. By referring cases in the near future, Peoria hopes to see positive outcomes for its veteran community, the release said.