Letter of the Day: Center's mission

Center's mission

EDITOR: Are the four California developmental centers located throughout the state still viable?

That decision will depend upon a variety of factors that, on the surface, appear to be linked to rising service delivery costs and coveted Sonoma Valley property values.

With the state once again becoming flush with cash, Gov. Jerry Brown is poised to spend $68 billion for a high-speed rail system and $14 billion more for a water project - two accomplishments that will surely secure his rightful place as a mover and a shaker in California's hallowed halls of government history.

There's no question that its expensive to care for dependent adults. That's something that has always been a given. On the other hand, we as a people seem to place little value upon those who exist in the outer reaches of the population bell curve. Sure there's fewer of them, but does that decrease their value, and do we get more bang for the buck by supporting others more capable of living independently without assistance?

The Sonoma Developmental Center was created years ago to serve individuals in need. The viability of that mission is no less important today than it was in 1891.

J.R. ANDRES

Santa Rosa