San Mateo Residents Raise Concerns Over Proposed Horizon Treatment Center
A proposed 69-bed substance abuse treatment center, Horizon Treatment Services, is facing opposition from San Mateo residents. The facility, planned for 101 North El Camino Real near El Cerrito Avenue, sparked debate during a recent county Behavioral Health Commission meeting. Concerns center around safety, proximity to schools, and a desire for greater transparency regarding the project.
Funding and Project Details
The County Board of Supervisors committed $2 million to the project on October 21. Horizon Treatment Services aims to redevelop the existing building into an “all-in-one campus” offering sobering support, withdrawal management, and residential treatment. The overall project is estimated to cost between $20 million and $23 million.
Community Concerns: Safety and Transparency
Residents, like Taso Zografos, have voiced concerns about the facility’s location near schools. The primary focus, Zografos stated, is the “safety and security of our community.” Some residents believe alternative locations, closer to medical facilities with emergency services, would be more suitable. Kolja Schluetter, a parent of a student at the nearby Episcopal Day School, expressed worry about the potential impact on children and seniors.
County and Horizon’s Response
San Mateo council member Lisa Diaz Nash acknowledged the city has limited authority over the project, which is led by the county and Horizon. Eliseo Becerra, Horizon Treatment Services Chief of Strategic Growth & Special Operations, emphasized the organization’s commitment to working with neighbors and ensuring the facility meets state licensing standards. Becerra highlighted that the project is supported by Proposition 1 grant funding aimed at addressing substance abuse and mental health crises.
A Critical Need for Treatment Facilities
The debate comes as San Mateo County faces a critical shortage of treatment facilities, exacerbated by recent mental health program closures. The proposed Horizon facility would include 16 sobering center beds, 17 detox beds, and 36 beds for residential treatment with medical support.
Upcoming Community Meeting
Horizon Treatment Services has scheduled a community meeting for Tuesday, March 24 at 6 p.m. At the downtown San Mateo Library to address resident concerns and provide further information about the project.
FAQ
What is Horizon Treatment Services? Horizon Treatment Services is a nonprofit organization that operates substance abuse treatment facilities, including sobering stations, throughout California.
Where is the proposed facility located? The proposed facility is located at 101 North El Camino Real near El Cerrito Avenue in San Mateo.
How much funding has been allocated to the project? The County Board of Supervisors has committed $2 million to the project.
What are the main concerns of residents? Residents are primarily concerned about the safety of the community, particularly children, and the proximity of the facility to schools.
When is the community meeting? The community meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, March 24 at 6 p.m. At the downtown San Mateo Library.
What types of services will the facility offer? The facility will offer sobering support, withdrawal management, and residential treatment services.
When is the facility expected to be operational? If the grant application is approved, construction would start this fall and the facility would be fully operational in March of 2028.
