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Inclusion Daily

February 19, 2010

Our View: Closure of Lanterman the right decision

The population of developmentally disabled individuals living in state-operated facilities has steadily decreased from a high of 13,000 in the late 1960s to 2,145 today. That decline is manifest at Lanterman Developmental Center in western Pomona, which once housed 3,000 residents and now is home to 398.

It can be said unequivocally the state served residents with developmental disabilities - including cerebral palsy, epilepsy, Down syndrome and autism - quite well. The reports from Lanterman are of a positive atmosphere and well-run facility.

But now, at the 305-acre facility that is more than 100 years old, rebuilding the infrastructure - and that would include new or upgraded water systems and sewer systems - is no longer cost-effective. In fact, for all the above reasons, neither is keeping the facility operating.

That's why the State Department of Developmental Services intends to close Lanterman and eventually, sell the prime real estate to the highest bidder with the proceeds going to the state general fund.

As difficult as this might be for those families affected, not to mention the approximately 1,300 employees, it's the right decision. The state cannot continue to operate such an expensive facility on such a large property when it's experiencing a 40-year decline in developmentally disabled residents. Back in the `50s and `60s, families had one choice - to institutionalize a child with a developmental disability. In the subsequent years, families have other options, including in-home care or a residential group home.

Another reason why closure seems warranted is the state's bleak budget picture. California is experiencing yearly deficits, part of a systemic problem of overspending and underfunding. Last year, the red ink approached $40 billion. Currently, the governor and the state Legislature must decide what to do about a $20 billion deficit. The state must reduce costs.

We applaud the state for moving ahead with closure of Lanterman but would urge a careful process with emphasis on the well-being of residents and the future of its employees. Terri Delgadillo, department director, announced the process could be started in July. A public hearing here in the San Gabriel Valley will be held in less than two weeks. We'll hold him responsible for making sure plans are clearly laid out and those affected have all their questions answered.

First and foremost, the state needs to find homes for every patient remaining at the residential care facility. That means, each residential transfer needs to be considered separately, with resident and parent/guardian input.

Also, employees should be found transfers to other state facilities and/or receive career counseling. And finally, allowing the cities of Pomona and Diamond Bar access to any future development proposals is key.

But plans for any future use are still far in the future. The state's emphasis must be on the placement of residents and ensuring them a smooth transition.