LACONIA — County pre-trial services and the restorative justice program could be merged into one department, if approved by commissioners.

The consolidation would pertain to both staff and services for the criminal justice system.

If pre-trial services, the county’s team of people who help the accused meet their court obligations, and the restorative justice program become one department, county taxpayers could see a $100,000 benefit to the budget, while retaining essential services offered to the community, according to county leaders.

“It’s a significant reduction, by one full-time employee,” County Administrator Debra Shackett told commissioners during a meeting on Oct. 6.

“For 2026, there is a decrease in payroll,” she said. “That payroll cost of one person is significant.”

Tricia

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