EL CENTRO — Imperial County Behavioral Health Services (ICBHS) celebrated Thursday the groundbreaking of the county’s new adult residential substance use disorder treatment facility, marking an important milestone in expanding access to critical behavioral health and recovery services for residents across Imperial County.
The celebration brought together County leadership, community partners, project collaborators, and behavioral health advocates to recognize the collective effort behind the development of the new facility. The program opened with a welcome from Gabriela Jimenez, assistant director of ICBHS, followed by a director’s address from Leticia Plancarte-Garcia, ICBHS director. Remarks were also provided by Imperial County Board Chairwoman Peggy Price and Dr. Kathleen Lang, Imperial County Executive Officer.
“Today marks an important milestone for Imperial County as we break ground on our adult residential substance use disorder treatment facility. This project represents more than just construction; it reflects our commitment to expanding access to care and supporting individuals and families on their path to recovery,” said Dr. Kathleen Lang, Imperial County executive officer.
Leticia Plancarte-Garcia, ICBHS Director: “Everyone deserves the chance to recover close to home, surrounded by support. For too long, individuals have had to leave their community to access residential care. As a department, ICBHS has been intentional in expanding services and building a strong, community-based system of care, but we knew one gap remained, a local residential substance use disorder treatment facility. This facility will help close that gap and expand opportunities for individuals and families in Imperial County to heal and recover. Today’s groundbreaking represents the foundation for a stronger system of care and a healthier community.”
As part of the program, Victoria Mansfield, Deputy Director of ICBHS, presented special recognitions to the many Imperial County staff members and partners whose dedication helped move the project forward. The recognitions highlighted the behind-the-scenes work of staff who, without hesitation, step in, solve problems, coordinate details, and keep projects moving, often through countless meetings, careful planning, and, as jokingly noted during the ceremony, even “immaculate spreadsheets.” Their commitment reflected the teamwork, attention to detail, and public service spirit that made this milestone possible.
A meaningful highlight of the ceremony was the heartfelt message shared by Kristen Mitosinka, peer support specialist, who spoke about her personal recovery journey and the importance of support, compassion, and access to treatment. Having been in recovery for two years, Mitosinka offered a powerful reminder of why facilities like this are so important, not only as treatment spaces but also as places of hope, dignity, and new beginnings for individuals and families impacted by substance use disorders.
The ceremony concluded with a formal groundbreaking featuring local dignitaries and project partners, symbolizing the beginning of a facility that will provide essential residential treatment services for adults experiencing substance use disorders.