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San Jose’s Willow Glen Faces Debate Over New Mental Health Facility

Archyde.com – April 8, 2025 – A proposed mental health facility sparks community discussion in San Jose, California, as residents weigh the need for increased mental healthcare access against local safety concerns.

New Facility Approved Amidst Community Concerns

The San Jose Planning Commission greenlit plans on March 26 for a 48-bed mental health inpatient facility at 913 Willow St. in the Willow Glen neighborhood. The facility, spearheaded by the LGTC Group, aims to provide comprehensive treatment for adults and teens grappling with conditions such as depression, anxiety, and eating disorders. The approval, however, wasn’t without its detractors. While the project bypassed the need for City Council approval, anxieties among nearby residents regarding security protocols have surfaced, highlighting the complexities of integrating mental health services within residential communities.

The facility plans to operate 24/7 with a dedicated staff of 10-15 professionals, ensuring round-the-clock care for its patients.

Bryan Maldonado,a resident in close proximity to the proposed site,voiced his apprehensions to the planning commissioners. maldonado, drawing from his 20 years of healthcare experience, questioned the facility’s stated purpose of treating “mild pathologies.” He argued that inpatient services typically cater to individuals with more severe conditions, raising concerns about the potential impact on the safety and well-being of the neighborhood, particularly given the presence of numerous children. Maldonado stated,”The developer stated this is for patients with mild pathologies. However, I’ve worked in health care for 20 years. Inpatient services are not for mild pathologies — those are for very severe pathologies. I’ve lived on the street since 2011 and the street is filled with children. We’re very concerned about the types of patients coming in and how they are going to manage that security wise.”

LGTC Group Addresses Security and Community Impact

Eugene Tillman, executive director of the LGTC Group, sought to allay these fears, assuring the community that stringent security measures woudl be implemented. He clarified that patient access would be strictly controlled via a shuttle service, and the facility would be equipped with comprehensive security systems. Tillman emphasized the group’s commitment to maintaining a high staff-to-patient ratio of one to three, further reinforcing the dedication to patient well-being and community safety. “There’s plenty of parking and other amenities available for the employees of the organization, which we intend to have a one to three patient ratio,” Tillman said. “These facilities are owned by our group, so there will be no disturbance or negative effect on the neighborhood.”

The LGTC group, previously known as the Los Gatos Therapy Center, already manages several clinics in the South Bay area, including locations in San Jose, Sunnyvale, and Campbell. The Willow Glen facility represents the group’s fifth site and will operate as a closed, 24-hour residential center providing psychiatric and medical monitoring along with various psychotherapeutic interventions.

The Broader Context: Mental Health Crisis in Santa Clara County

The approval of this facility arrives amid a broader discussion about mental healthcare accessibility in Santa Clara County. The recent closure of Good Samaritan Hospital’s 18-bed acute psychiatric care unit at Mission Oaks Hospital highlighted the pressing need for increased inpatient mental health resources. this closure resulted in an 8% reduction in acute care beds within the county, exacerbating existing challenges in providing timely and adequate care.

The scarcity of mental health resources often leads to a revolving door situation, particularly for individuals experiencing homelessness who also struggle with mental health issues. without adequate support and treatment, these individuals may cycle through emergency rooms, jails, and the streets, further straining community resources.

Santa Clara County officials have publicly stated their intention to double the number of available mental health and substance use treatment beds to 530 by 2030. This enterprising plan aims to increase the number of individuals receiving substance use treatment to 20,000 by the same year. The county’s initiative recognizes the crucial link between mental health, substance abuse, and homelessness, and reflects a concerted effort to address these interconnected issues through comprehensive care.

San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan has previously stated that increased mental health treatment options for the homeless will encourage more homeless individuals to accept shelter. “There’s no intention of criminalization,” he said.”But we have to get this person into the care of the county and make sure the county knows who they are and that they have a responsibility for getting that person indoors one way or another.”

Counterarguments and Community Integration

Despite the recognized need for mental health facilities, integrating them into residential neighborhoods often faces resistance. Concerns about safety, property values, and potential disruptions to community life are common. these concerns are valid and warrant careful consideration. Though, research consistently shows that when properly managed and integrated, mental health facilities do not pose a meaningful threat to community safety or property values. Accomplished integration relies on open communication, obvious security protocols, and a commitment from the facility to be a responsible neighbor.

Planning commissioner justin Lardinois addressed the concerns directly, stating, “I totally understand where you’re coming from, why you might feel alarmed and why facilities like this might sound scary. (There’s) multiple instances of facilities like this that exist in neighborhoods, that really, I think a lot of folks just don’t realize are there because they are quiet and closed off.” Lardinois’s statement underscores the importance of education and awareness in dispelling misconceptions surrounding mental health facilities and fostering a more inclusive community surroundings.

The NIMBY (Not In My Backyard) syndrome often plays a role in the opposition to such facilities.This phenomenon reflects a desire to avoid perceived negative impacts, even when those impacts are unfounded. Overcoming NIMBYism requires addressing the underlying fears and prejudices through education, dialog, and demonstrable evidence of successful community integration.

Moreover, providing resources and support to facilities to ensure they are well-maintained, adequately staffed, and compliant with all safety regulations is paramount. Regular community meetings and open forums can provide opportunities for residents to voice their concerns, ask questions, and build trust with facility staff.

Future Advancement and City Council Aspirations

Adding to the LGTC Group’s expansion, they applied for a similar project involving the conversion of an office into a facility at 738 N. First St.months before the Willow Glen proposal. City planning officials approved this project in 2023, also for 48 beds, marking it as the company’s sixth facility once it becomes operational.

Planning Commission Chair Anthony Tordillos, currently a candidate for the District 3 council seat, has publicly supported both LGTC developments, emphasizing the importance of such resources within the community. Tordillos stated, “Facilities like this really do provide life-saving care, so I’m glad this facility is going forward.”

A Path Forward: Collaboration and Understanding

the situation in Willow Glen highlights the ongoing need for a balanced approach to mental healthcare planning—one that prioritizes accessibility and addresses legitimate community concerns. By fostering open communication, implementing robust security measures, and promoting education, San Jose can strive to create a welcoming environment for both mental health facilities and the individuals they serve.

Ultimately,the success of this and other similar initiatives hinges on the ability of the community to embrace a more compassionate and understanding viewpoint on mental health. Only through collaboration and a shared commitment to well-being can we hope to address the growing mental health crisis and build a healthier,more inclusive society.

Mental Health Resources in Santa Clara County

For U.S. readers seeking mental health support, the following resources are available:

• santa clara County Behavioral Health Services Department: Offers a range of mental health and substance use services. Visit their website for details.
• National Alliance on Mental illness (NAMI) Santa Clara County: Provides support, education, and advocacy for individuals and families affected by mental illness.
• Mental Health America of California: A statewide organization dedicated to promoting mental health and preventing mental illness.
• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Governance (SAMHSA): A federal agency providing facts and resources on mental health and substance abuse.
• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Call or text 988 for immediate crisis support.

What specific steps are being taken by LGTC Group to ensure the security of both patients and the surrounding Willow Glen community?

Willow Glen mental Health facility Debate: An Interview with Community Liaison, Sarah Chen

Introduction: Context of the Willow Glen facility

Archyde.com – San Jose, CA – We sit down with Sarah Chen, the Community Liaison for the newly approved mental health facility in Willow Glen, San Jose. Sarah, thank you for joining us.

Sarah Chen: Thank you for having me. I appreciate the chance to discuss this important project.

Addressing Community Concerns

Archyde.com: The project has garnered some community concerns, naturally. Residents, like Mr. Maldonado, have voiced apprehensions about the facilityS impact. How has LGTC Group addressed these concerns?

Sarah Chen: We understand the concerns and take them very seriously. As Eugene Tillman, our executive director, mentioned, we’re implementing stringent security measures. Patient access will be strictly controlled via a shuttle service. The facility will have complete security systems and a high staff-to-patient ratio to ensure the safety and wellbeing of both our patients and the community.

Security Measures and Patient Profiles

Archyde.com: Can you elaborate on the types of services offered and the security protocols?

Sarah Chen: Certainly.The facility will provide 24-hour residential care, including psychiatric and medical monitoring, and various psychotherapeutic interventions. Patients requiring a secure environment, and a specific level of care for conditions like depression and anxiety qualify for our programs, as previously mentioned, we have a robust security system designed to protect these individuals, and also our neighborhood.

The broader Mental Health Landscape

Archyde.com: The urgency of this project seems particularly relevant given the broader context—the closure of acute psych beds and the county’s goal to increase mental health resources. What is LGTC group’s outlook on this?

Sarah Chen: We acknowledge the scarcity that exists, and are trying to fill the void.The closure of the Good Samaritan Hospital unit, which has a similar capacity, reflects the vital need for more treatment availability, something we are ready to provide. The county’s initiatives aligning with our mission is encouraging to ensure those who need assistance are given the resources that can enhance their lives.

Community Integration and Long-Term Goals

Archyde.com: Beyond security, what steps is LGTC Group taking to actively integrate into the Willow Glen community?

Sarah Chen: We are aiming to establish open lines of interaction with the community, including regular community meetings. We also will continue to engage with various neighborhood organizations. We want to be a responsible and collaborative neighbor, contributing positively to the local environment. Additionally, we intend to be open to suggestions.

Overcoming the ‘NIMBY’ mindset

Archyde.com: It’s often stated, nimbyism can be an obstacle for facilities like this.How do you plan to mitigate the reluctance, if any?

Sarah Chen: we understand that some concerns exist. We believe clarity and education are key. sharing details about how we operate, demonstrating our security protocols, and showcasing positive outcomes from our other facilities can help assuage fears. By actively demonstrating our commitment to being good neighbors, we hope to build trust and confidence within the community.

Expansion and Vision for the Future

Archyde.com: LGTC has already invested in this area with plans to open other facilities. What’s the overall vision for mental healthcare in Santa Clara County, and how does LGTC Group envision playing a role?

Sarah Chen: We aspire to be a leading provider of accessible, high-quality mental healthcare resources. We believe in creating a comprehensive system in support of patients from all backgrounds.We want to expand our services to cater to all who need help. Santa Clara County’s goals align with our mission. We strongly endorse that we can definitely help meet these needs with compassion, understanding, and, most importantly, effective care.

A Call to Action: Open Dialog and Public Support

Archyde.com: how can the community become more informed and supportive? What resources can we provide to our readers to encourage open dialogue?

Sarah Chen: The best thing the community can do is learn more. visit our website, attend the upcoming community meetings to learn more, and approach the situation with an open mind. We’re happy to answer questions and provide any information needed, as are any other resources you may suggest. By openly creating a dialogue, we hope to dispel common myths, address concerns and share our positive vision for both the facility, and the individuals we are aiming to serve.

Archyde.com: Thank you, Saah Chen, for your time and insights. We encourage our readers to share their thoughts and questions in the comments below. Let’s create an open discussion to promote understanding and address the concerns of our community. What are some of your biggest concerns with the new Willow Glen facility?