To the Editor:
I find it unthinkable that our Fillmore City Council is considering approving a marijuana farm in the area across from El Pescador Restaurant.
The Fillmore City Council needs to know that Fillmore families are completely opposed to their even considering this action. I am shaking my head with disbelief: "WHAT ARE THEY THINKING?!"
I have dedicated my life to being an active and informed community member. I have the honor and privilege to work in our schools as an advocate to our youth and families, always on the watch for what programs can improve our community and the future of our youth. This proposal reeks that our most vulnerable youth and families would be influenced and targeted.
My professional experience and knowledge gained as a former longtime Juvenile Justice/Delinquency Prevention Commissioner and my experience working with youth and families of all economic levels for over 30 years in Ventura County, allow me to sincerely express that we DO NOT need this type of business in our beloved Fillmore and Piru Communities.
I have the advantage of receiving constant and up-to-date research data through trainings in Ventura County, the State and federal levels in the area of drugs and alcohol. My focus has always been on helping our youth and families obtain a better future and jobs. Many of those youth and adults using marijuana are excluded from excellent paying jobs in the government, schools and law enforcement.
Currently, community meetings against the proposed marijuana farm are being held at the classrooms at St. Francis of Assisi Church every Wednesday at 5:30 pm. Please attend, even if you are late. Every person makes our voice stronger.
Please also join me at the next Fillmore City Council at 6:30 pm on Tuesday, August 9th to let our elected officials know that the Fillmore citizens will stand up and voice "No, not in our town and not on our watch. Take your business elsewhere; we care about keeping the integrity of our town and want a good future for our children!"
Please see key information about how marijuana tragically affects youths' brains at: venturacountylimits.com, or call 805-524-8644.
Our young children and teenagers are watching our adult actions. We do not want to set our progress and hard work in a backwards mode.
Thank you.
Norma Pérez-Sandford