Coalition and Lawmakers Continue Push for SDC's Future

The Sonoma Developmental Center, Sonoma Valley, Calif. (Conner Jay, The Press Democrat)

The coalition of family, advocates, legislators and environmental groups that has come together over the future of Sonoma Developmental Center (SDC), California's oldest and one of its few remaining centers, continues to lobby for a say in plans for the center's programs, services and resources. The Press Democrat is reporting on the group's efforts most recent efforts to stave off any hint of closure or dissolution of the nearly 1,000 acre property.

“We've made it clear that we are eager and willing to have a conversation about continuation of services, different kinds of services and the preservation of the site,” said Sonoma County Supervisor Susan Gorin, who has taken the lead on local efforts.

The coalition includes the Sonoma County Agricultural Preservation and Open Space District, county regional parks, the Sonoma Ecology Center and the Sonoma Land Trust. Sonoma's Parent Hospital Association also is on board.

“We want to be included from the ground floor,” Kathleen Miller, the group's president, said. Her son, Dan Smith, is a resident of the facility.

read the full article...  Lawmakers join fight for Sonoma Developmental Center, by Derek Moore, The Press Democrat (March 7, 2014)

More information about the Sonoma Coalition is available on this blog:
Sonoma Coalition to Present at Next PHA Meeting
Coalition of Organizations Urges Support for Sonoma Developmental Center