News Flash

I was invited to tour the Lakeview Camp today along with Congressman Barton and representatives from the Offices of Senators Cornyn and Cruz. We met and were briefed by representatives of the Office of Health and Human Services, the Office of Refugee Resettlement, the Baptist Children and Family Services and the Lakeview Camp.
During an in-depth walking tour we were able to observe and ask questions regarding all aspects of the Campus operations; from the arrival of the children to their scheduled departure. The sites included the initial intake facility, housing quarters, dining hall, and medical clinic where comprehensive medical screenings are conducted. Also toured was the Incident Command Post where first responders and other personnel oversee the children, their status and maintain responsibility for the over 270 onsite personnel.
With EMS and Fire services on the premises, Lakeview is currently housing 445 children and anticipates another 200 children within the week. I observed multiple security checkpoints manned by BCFS and local law enforcement.
We passed many groups that offered inquisitive looks or shy smiles. They were well-supervised, and well-behaved as they played outdoors, walked the campus trails, or had lunch in the dining hall.
My office has received inquiries regarding the 21 day temporary housing. Some have asked for additional information and others have asked for ways to help. This is a generous community.
I felt that my questions relative to the overall operation and any potential impact on the County were addressed by BCFS and HHS.
Although Lakeview is a private facility and had no obligation to do so, I appreciated their willingness to open the doors and allow us to view their operations first-hand. And, I’m pleased to share it with you.