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CDCAN

January 29, 2010

Schwarzenegger Administration Proposes to Close Lanterman Developmental Center

Department of Developmental Services Looks At Two Year Closure Process Which Requires Approval by Legislature

SACRAMENTO, CALIF (CDCAN) [Updated 01/29/10 10:30 AM (Pacific Time)] - The Schwarzenegger Administration announced this morning that it will propose budget related legislation to close 82 year old Lanterman Developmental Center in Pomona that provides 24 hour residential care for persons with developmental disabilities including cerebral palsy, epilepsy, down syndrome, autism and other lifelong conditions.

The Department of Developmental Services, after briefing representatives of families and staff at the facility, made the announcement saying the process the 302 acre facility containing 192 buildings, would take about two years to accomplish.

Lanterman Developmental Center at one time served more than 3,000 residents, and today there are fewer than 400 living at the facility, with the population declining 10 percent or more each year. The developmental center employs (as of January 2009) about 1,300 state employees or persons under contract with the State.

The Department of Developmental Services said that given the declining population and aging infrastructure, it is no longer economical to operate this facility.

The Department of Developmental Services will utilize a transition process that enables each resident to live in an environment appropriate for his or her needs consistent with the landmark 1999 US Supreme Court’s Olmstead decision.

“The decision to recommend closure was not made lightly, as it will impact the residents served, their families, and the staff, all of whom have worked hard to make Lanterman Developmental Center a caring and positive place to live,” said Terri Delgadillo, Director of the Department of Developmental Services. “The well-being of all who live and work at Lanterman will be of our utmost concern and priority as we move forward.”

The Department of Developmental Services said it will work closely with the local regional centers in Los Angeles County in defining and developing resources that will support the needs of consumers who are identified through the individualized planning process as appropriate for transition to the community and will work with labor unions and develop strategies to assist employees in finding opportunities for future employment.

“The Department appreciates the many experienced and dedicated employees who have worked to improve the lives of consumers served,” stated Director Delgadillo.

What Happens Next

  • The Department of Developmental Services in identifying Lanterman Developmental Center for closure, sets in motion a process defined in existing state law (Welfare and Institutions Code section 4474.1) for closing developmental centers that will include extensive community outreach, at least one public hearing and a detailed closure plan to the Legislature by April 1, 2010.
  • Legislative approval must be received prior to beginning closure activities in the State Budget year 2010-2011.
  • The Department of Developmental Services said it considers it “essential” that interested stakeholders have an opportunity to participate in planning for the closure, including consumers, their family members, employees, regional centers, advocates, service providers, public officials, representatives from the communities surrounding Lanterman Developmental Center, and other interested parties. The Department of Developmental Services said it will be following this announcement with information on upcoming meetings and a hearing on the proposed closure of Lanterman Developmental Center.

Department of Developmental Services Operates Four Developmental Centers

The Department of Developmental Services directly operates four Developmental Centers located in Costa Mesa, Pomona, Porterville and Eldridge (Sonoma County) and two smaller state-operated community facilities located in Yuba City and in Cathedral City. The facility in Yuba City is slated for closure in February and last year Agnews Developmental Center in San Jose officially closed its doors.

Developmental Centers Are 24 Hour Facilities

The developmental centers are licensed and certified as Nursing Facility (NF), Intermediate Care Facility/Mentally Retarded (ICF/MR) and acute care hospitals. The two smaller community facilities are licensed as ICF/MR facilities.

These facilities provide an a wide range services and supports for individuals in need of a secure environment, or who have special medical and/or behavioral program needs. Admission to one of these facilities requires either a formal determination that the individual meets stringent admission criteria, or a court order.

These facilities deal with all aspects of the individuals' lives. This includes everything from residential services through skill training, specialized health-care and other therapies to leisure and recreational opportunities.