DOWNEY – Downey Councilwoman Claudia M. Frometa released a plan Thursday to stop the flow of fentanyl into Downey.

Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is 50-100 times stronger than morphine. According to the CDC, opioids were involved in 68,630 overdose deaths in 2020.

“As a healthcare professional, I've seen firsthand fentanyl's devastating consequences. It is ripping families apart and causing irreparable harm to our communities,” Frometa said. “As your Downey District 4 councilmember, I want to assure you that keeping our kids safe is my top priority.

“With that said, I would like to share with you the steps I am taking to combat this dangerous drug.”

Frometa’s plan to combat fentanyl contains six parts:

Work with Police. Step one is working closely with our Downey Police Department. It has been made clear that illegal drugs, including fentanyl, are not tolerated in Downey. I was proud to approve a deal with the Downey Unified School District that places an armed police officer at EVERY public high school in Downey during school hours. These campus resource officers build trusting bonds with students and faculty, and help keep our campuses as safe as possible.

Dialogue with Downey Unified. It's imperative that the City of Downey and Downey Unified maintain clear, open channels of communication. I'm proud to say that our City's relationship with our school district has never been better and we are all equally dedicated to keeping our children safe and campuses free of illicit drugs. In the event that a student comes into contact with fentanyl, there is a clear protocol in place to get the student medical assistance as quickly as possible.

Communication with Hospitals. Downey is a hub of medical innovation. We are fortunate to have three amazing hospitals in our city -- Kaiser Permanente Downey Medical Center, PIH Hospital and Rancho Los Amigos National Rehabilitation Center - giving us unparalleled access to doctors and medical staff. Downey residents have access to world-class medical care and each of the hospitals has indicated their commitment to ending the fentanyl epidemic.

Collaboration with Local Drug Agencies. There are several drug and rehabilitation service agencies in Downey and surrounding communities that provide much-needed help to those with substance abuse issues. Help is available! It's imperative we provide support to those who need help getting sober. A list of these agencies can be found on the City of Downey website.

Put Our Foot Down with Sacramento. Frankly, I am sick and tired of politicians passing ridiculous legislation that ignores common sense. We have coddled criminals to the detriment of our neighborhoods. It's time we let Sacramento politicians know that putting the rights of criminals ahead of law-abiding residents like you and me can no longer be tolerated.

Talk to Our Kids. Finally, I cannot stress the importance of having clear, honest communication with our children about the dangers of drugs. It is not harmless fun; drugs today are often laced with chemicals making them more potent and deadly than ever before. Please talk to your kids and help them make wise decisions.

“I may be an elected official and healthcare worker but I am a mother first,” Frometa said. “The health of my four children is my top priority, as I'm sure the health of your children is for you.”

Frometa is up for re-election to the Downey City Council. She was first elected in 2018.

“If I can be of any assistance, don't hesitate to contact me,” she said. She can be reached at claudia4downey@gmail.com or online at www.ClaudiaFrometaforDowney.com.