BURNETT COUNTY -- Burnett County Judge Melissia Mogen has decided to abolish Treatment Court in Burnett County, citing the County’s decision not to approve her request for a full-time remote position. In response, County officials are addressing concerns, clarifying the facts, and working with the Department of Justice to create a sustainable alternative—read more to understand the County’s plan, according to a press release from Burnett County Board Chair Donald Taylor.
PRESS RELEASE
Burnett County’s Commitment to Treatment and Diversion Programs
Over the past few weeks, our community has seen an increase in discussions stemming from comments made by Judge Mogen regarding the future of Treatment Court. As many now know, Judge Mogen has decided to abolish Treatment Court effective April 25, 2025, citing the County’s decision not to approve her demand for a full-time remote position.
It is concerning to see claims made without full context or factual basis. While I will not cross ethical lines regarding Burnett County employees and protected human resources information, I will provide some important facts and context.
Burnett County takes fiscal responsibility seriously, ensuring fair and equitable compensation, strong and sustainable benefits, and meaningful career growth for our employees. As with all positions, we carefully analyze roles and responsibilities—including those related to Treatment Court. Determinations for new positions are part of the normal budget process, approved in November of each year. Judge Mogen did not seek a full-time position at that time.
The Treatment and Diversion (TAD) Grant, which funds Treatment Court, requires the County to report the number of hours worked on Treatment Court-related activities. Over the last five years, these reported hours have never exceeded 1,000 hours in a 12-month period, which is below the threshold for even a part-time position. Judge Mogen’s demand for a full-time remote position with benefits does not align with the actual workload data, nor the necessity to fully carry out the position in an effective way. Expecting the County to create such a position would be neither fiscally responsible nor fair to the hardworking taxpayers of Burnett County.
What should be the focus of discussion is the value of Treatment Court itself. Burnett County was one of the first in Wisconsin to receive a TAD Grant, and this program has provided life-changing opportunities for folks in our community. The County Board has long supported Treatment Court and the TAD Grant, recognizing the vital role it plays in rehabilitation and public safety.
However, the decision to terminate Treatment Court rests solely with Judge Mogen. Only one person in Burnett County has the authority to discontinue this program—and that is the Judge.
Unfortunately, her choice to close Treatment Court disregards the needs of both current and future participants.
As soon as the County was made aware of this decision, we acted immediately to explore alternatives. A dedicated team is now working closely with the Department of Justice to develop a new framework for Treatment and Diversion programs in Burnett County. While the structure may change, our goal is to ensure continued access to these important services.
We recognize that the Judge’s decision will have an impact on those currently enrolled in Treatment Court. While this transition will not be without challenges, our priority is to minimize disruption and create a more sustainable Treatment and Diversion program—one that cannot be unilaterally dismantled in the future. This effort aligns with Burnett County’s mission: To Provide Vision and Stewardship.
We will continue working diligently to serve our community and ensure that individuals seeking recovery and rehabilitation still have opportunities to succeed.
-- Per Donald L. Taylor, Chairman — Burnett County Board of Supervisors
Last Update: Apr 04, 2025 12:27 pm CDT
