Page 59 - CityofKennedaleFY26AdoptedBudget

DEPARTMENT OUTLINE: MUNICIPAL COURT

The Municipal Court is a Judicial Branch of the City government. The Kennedale Municipal
Court is dedicated to the principles of fair and impartial justice while adhering to statutory
requirements and providing the highest standards in customer service. Utilizing an
innovative approach, the Municipal Court promotes timely disposition of cases while
ensuring accuracy to promote a positive public perception of the judicial system.

PRIOR YEAR RESULTS & ACCOMPLISHMENTS

• Actively participated in 2025 Municipal Courts Week, promoting public awareness and
engagement with court services and operations
• Recipient of the 2025 Municipal Traffic Safety Initiative Award from the Texas Municipal
Courts Education Center (TMCEC) in the Low Volume category. This recognition
highlights our court’s commitment to enhancing traffic safety and preventing impaired
driving through innovative community outreach and education programs.
• Participated in the 2025 Great Texas Warrant Roundup, coordinating with regional law
enforcement and neighboring jurisdictions to resolve outstanding warrants and
encourage voluntary compliance through public outreach efforts.
• Participated in the 2024 Public Safety Event and National Night Out, engaging with the
community to promote safety awareness, strengthening neighborhood partnerships,
and fostering positive relations between the public and local law enforcement.
• The Court has successfully implemented a new court software version following a year
of preparation and installation process. This collaborative effort involved our Court, IT
department, partner cities, dispatch, jail, and Police Department records. The new
system introduces significant advancements in technological support for case flow
management and participant engagement, paving the way for more efficient and
streamlined operations across all involved entities.
• The Court remains committed to investing in our team’s professional development by
providing and completing additional training sessions focused on customer service, legal
knowledge, mental health awareness, and court software and technology upgrades.
• Implemented a Diversion Program aimed at early intervention for at-risk youth, adults,
and families in crisis. The program focuses on identifying underlying concerns,
connecting participants with appropriate community resources, and maintaining
ongoing contact with individuals and families while their case is pending in court. This
proactive approach is designed to support long-term stability and reduce recidivism.

SHORT-TERM (FY26) GOALS
• Actively monitor pending and future legislation affecting municipal court operations to
ensure compliance, inform policy updates, and adapt procedures in alignment with
state and local legal developments
• Encourage and support the continued professional development and training of staff to
enhance their skills, knowledge, and effectiveness

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