American Indian Health & Services Clinic advocates for patient well being, propose to move to premiere location

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. — Plans for a new American Indian Health Clinic is gaining traction and positive reviews from community members.

American Indian Health and Services said it hopes to move to 3237 State Street in Santa Barbara.

This location is the site of a former Army Reserve building, but the armory has been vacant and has not been used since 2009.

Community members said this is an incredibly beneficial repurposing of a building.

On Thursday, the Santa Barbara Planning Commission voted 6-0 to support the clinic’s specific plan, development plan and general plan amendment.

The plan calls for new offices, exam rooms, treatment rooms, labs, dental facilities, a community room, employee break room with kitchen, locker rooms, outdoor staff patio and a second-story roof deck.

“There has been just countless amounts of research that tell us that the physical environment plays a critical role in promoting well-being and people's health and the health care that they receive. And not only that, clients come in for services, but for staff as well,” said Spokesperson for Santa Barbara County Department of Behavioral Wellness Suzanne Grimmesey.

CEO of American Indian Health and Services Scott Black said, “For 30 years we have operated out of a disjointed patchwork of commercial suites that has not served our patients or practitioners. this new facility will be a center for patients to receive culturally sensitive healthcare, including medical, pediatric, dental and behavioral services.”

The City of Santa Barbara City Planner said the approval process is about 75% done, but they still need city council approval, design review approval and building permits.