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02/07/2024 08:00 AMThose who support locating the APT Foundation methadone clinic in a residential area of Guilford propose that a methadone clinic is no different from a diabetic clinic.
I am a retired nurse who has dispensed methadone in a clinical setting. I know the culture of such an arena.
Diabetic and methadone clinics have different treatment goals to meet the needs of their vastly different populations. The Methadone clients have specific needs. Treatment must address opiate dependence. Most are also dependent on other drugs. These addicts are maintained on a prescribed opiate in place of a street drug. Many have mental health issues, legal issues, as well as housing, transportation, and employment challenges. Methadone clinics attract people who want to purchase methadone from clients or hope to lure them to purchase illegal drugs. Often, clients will wait hours for public transport. They are not allowed to remain on APT property, so instead, they spread out into the neighborhood. Unlike diabetic clinics, methadone clinics hire security guards because there is an identified need for security. Yet, there are no guards made available to nearby businesses and residential neighborhoods. A methadone clinic belongs in an industrial area or a large medical complex where there is security.
North Haven First Selectman Michael Freda denied APT's plan to locate on Clintonville Road because it is a residential neighborhood. APT had to change its plan and relocate to a location on Sackett Point Road, which is in an industrial area. Freda showed concern for the voters and protected his residents, and APT was able to have a clinic in an appropriate setting to help those who require their services.
Why didn't Guilford show this same courtesy to residents and taxpayers?
Colleen Otis
Guilford