UPDATE: The Victor Valley Union High School District Board has urgently opposed the proposed location of a new addiction treatment center just feet from schools. In a special meeting on October 30, 2023, board members unanimously adopted a resolution against San Bernardino County’s planned $60 million facility adjacent to Silverado High School and Larrea Middle School, threatening the safety of over 4,000 students.
The proposed center, set to expand an existing facility on approximately 29 acres, would include more than 200 beds for residential and outpatient treatment. This expansion would triple the size of the current setup, bringing it alarmingly close—within a few hundred feet—to school campuses. Concerned officials have raised serious issues about student safety, campus security, and potential disruptions to educational activities.
Board President Rosalio “Rosie” Hinojos emphasized the board’s commitment to student safety during the meeting, stating, “If we aren’t looking out for them, we’re not doing our job.” The board clarified that their opposition is not to the treatment services themselves, but specifically to the facility’s location. All five board members, including Kent Crosby and Penny Edmiston, voiced their concerns and voted for the resolution.
Superintendent Carl Coles also expressed disappointment regarding the lack of communication from the county during the site selection process. Coles stated that many community members initially believed the property was designated for residential housing, not a treatment facility. He proposed a joint town hall meeting in January 2024 to foster community dialogue and input regarding the project.
During public comments, Principal Joe Williams and Kelly Powers, a parent at Silverado, highlighted fears over traffic impacts and emergency response access. Williams warned that lockdowns at the treatment facility could trigger similar procedures at neighboring schools, causing significant disruption to students and staff.
In a response, Diane Rundles, San Bernardino County Assistant Executive Officer, stressed the critical need for such facilities in the community. She expressed a willingness to work collaboratively with the district to address the valid concerns raised.
The board is urging parents and community members to stay informed and engage with county leadership regarding this pressing issue. As this situation develops, the safety and wellbeing of students remain the top priority for the district.
Stay tuned for updates as community discussions unfold, and consider supporting local news to ensure ongoing coverage of this vital issue.
