York Region is consolidating its in-person court services in Newmarket, citing a decline in in-person users.
The Provincial Offences Act facility in Richmond Hill is being consolidated with existing court operations at 17150 Yonge St., at Eagle Street.
The consolidation could realize annual savings of $600,000, according to a York Region news release.
"This strategic decision aims to streamline operations, enhance service delivery and position York Region for future growth,” York Region chairman and CEO Wayne Emmerson said.
The region said it has seen a 78 per cent decrease in in-person court services over the past five years, reducing the need for physical courtrooms. It said that it can harvest digital technologies to provide “convenient, efficient and accessible services.”
“Early digital initiatives such as hybrid proceedings have successfully transformed the court system, benefiting both residents and stakeholders,” the region said.
The Richmond Hill facility would require upgrades for these hybrid court options, whereas the newer Newmarket facility already has the capacity to provide the services, the region said. Further, the lease at the Richmond Hill facility is expiring in 2031.
The region said that the move would not impact job security for dedicated staff.
“A key priority is supporting our workforce during the transition, ensuring the staff’s well-being,” the region said.
The transition process is expected to take approximately one year to complete, with a plan executed over the next several months to make that happen.
In 2022, York Region Court Services served more than 85,000 individuals, with 41,000 of those receiving assistance through online services.
The Provincial Offences cases now moving to Newmarket would include speeding, careless driving, not wearing a seatbelt, parking offences, occupational health and safety and Ministry of Environment violations, among others.
