Rocklin Parents Leery Of Pick For New Mental Health Facility Location
ROCKLIN (CBS13) — Parents in Rocklin are up in arms about a proposed mental health facility that would be built near schools, parks and neighborhoods.
The city says the new behavioral health hospital would have around the clock security on West Ranch View Drive, west of Wildcat Boulevard.
Right next to a new senior assisted living center, across the street from an apartment complex and a stone's throw from parks and neighborhoods is where it would go.
"It would make me uncomfortable," said Marilynn Clay. "I have young kids and there's lots of issues you hear about around communities with people with behavioral and mental issues."
She's among those worried about the proposed behavioral health hospital near Rocklin neighborhoods and near where kids play baseball.
The city says patients would range from youth to adults, including veterans, for a range of mental health issues. According to city documents, the facility would have 102 beds and be locked and fenced off with security cameras and 24-7 security.
"I myself am a parent here in Rocklin and I have the same kinds of concerns," said Rocklin economic director Karen Garner.
The city's planning commission is weighing whether the facility is right for Rocklin.
"It requires a conditional use permit, which allows them to take a pretty in-depth look at it and make sure it's safe for our community," she said.
The city says the hospital would be operated by Universal Health Services, which has similar facilities in 37 states. Garner says the nearest option is in Sacramento with no options in Placer County.
"I think it's an important facility to have," said Theresa Cornes.
She knows this from personal tragedy. Her ex-husband, who she says battled depression and drug addiction, passed away a month ago. She says he never really got the help he needed.
"Absolutely it's very vital for anyone with any problems at all, to have the right facility to take care of that," she said.
Still, she isn't sure this is the right place.