Q: What is happening?

A: Jefferson County is facing a significant number of budget cuts and our services have been included in those under review. We are incredibly grateful that the county has given us a year's notice to work on finding ways to continue providing services to agencies and citizens.

Q: How will the budget changes impact me?

A: It will impact each agency that uses JCMS services in different ways. OvalOptions will work with each agency and department pursuing funding methods and improving programs. There is a form on this page where you can reach out if you have specific concerns.

Q: What’s going to happen to the court program?

A:  The court program is one that the Jefferson County judges rely on extensively.  While we don’t have any concrete information regarding continued funding at this moment, we are working to find replacement funding so that the citizens of Jefferson County will continue being served by this important program.  If you have any ideas regarding funding sources, please fill out the contact form on this page and let us know your ideas! 

Q: Will you still be doing child support cases?

A:  As of right now, child support cases will be scheduled through November or December 2021.  JCMS has been a valuable resource to Child Support Services for many years and as with the other Jefferson County programs, we are looking for paths to alternate funding.  Please fill out the contact form on this page to share your ideas and thoughts regarding financial support for this valuable and important program! 

Q: What about after January 2021?

A: After January 2021 is unknown right now. OvalOptions is currently negotiating with our primary referral sources to identify ways to continue these valuable services. We welcome any suggestions you may have. Fill out the contact form on this page and let us know your thoughts!

Q: How long will we get services?

A: Unless alternate funding can be found for your particular program, all mediation services must be completed no later than December 31, 2020.

Q: Can we still get services if my department does not have a new contract?

A: If there is no contract in place, OvalOptions can be hired on a case by case basis.

Q: Who will provide services in 2021?

A: Each agency will need to contract with OvalOptions independently to develop alternate programs if the County does not provide funding.

Q: How much will it cost to continue services?

A: How much, will depend on your agency’s caseload and what services you want to contract with OvalOptions. Please contact us for more information regarding your needs. You may use the form on this page.

Q:  What is OvalOptions? 

A:  OvalOptions is a conflict consulting firm dedicated to connecting people with the tools they need to handle conflict constructively. We are the company administering the Jefferson County Mediation Services contract. 

Q: Who is Jennifer Runyan?

A:  Jennifer Runyan is the COO of OvalOptions and among her responsibilities are coordinating and implementing all new programs and funding pursuits. Jennifer is an experienced mediator and began her formal mediation work as a volunteer with JCMS.  She is a certified paralegal and has worked as such for over 10 years.  Jennifer’s business background is also an asset she brings to the OvalOptions team.   

Q: What is the last date for JCMS?

A: The last date for each agency will be different. We will update you as we know more.

Q: What will happen to the JCMS building/location?

A:  OvalOptions has offices in Wheat Ridge and the future of the JCMS location is currently unknown.   

Q: Can I do anything to save JCMS?

A: Yes and no. Yes, please send us all your ideas, thoughts, and contacts to save these programs! There is a form on this page to contact us. No matter what new programs come from these changes, JCMS, in its current form, may not exist after January 2021.