Pubdate: Wed, 16 Oct 2002
Source: Ajax/Pickering News Advertiser (CN ON)
Copyright: 2002 Metroland Printing, Publishing, & Distributing, LTD
Contact:  http://www.durhamregion.com/dr/community/ajax/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/2104
Author: Chris Topple

CITY MUST BATTLE ON METHADONE CLINIC, MARINA

To the editor:

It is unfortunate for the city of Oshawa as to what is transpiring 
regarding the proposed methadone drug treatment clinic in the downtown, and 
regarding the closure of our marina. There is no doubt there is a need for 
such a clinic, which offers the treatment of the synthetic drug methadone 
for the abuse of illicit or prescription drugs, and for those afflicted 
with chronic pain syndrome.

However, the proposed location in the heart of the downtown, at Simcoe and 
Athol streets, is most inappropriate. No matter the need for the clinic, in 
the proposed site it will carry a very negative image, and such an image is 
the last thing Oshawa's downtown needs, particularly in light of City 
council's efforts to revitalize the downtown. There is no reason why the 
City and the private owners of the clinic could not locate a better site 
for this service, in a mutually satisfactory outcome.

The City had no choice but to appeal to the courts the Ontario Municipal 
Board ruling which upheld the proposed location. But the owners of the 
clinic should be adding the interests of the welfare of the downtown to the 
interests of the need for the clinic. An amicable solution for all parties 
is possible, if reason prevails.

Regarding the closure of the marina, we are fortunate Oshawa Harbour is one 
of the best deep-water harbours in Ontario. There is no doubt the 
development of the west pier into restaurants, boutiques, a hotel, a 
swimming pool, and bike paths would be overwhelmingly beneficial and 
profitable for Oshawa.

We do not need another downward step with yet another loss - the marina. 
Even at a financial loss, it is necessary for the image of the city, and 
the potential for profitable development remains. In addition, the 
environment assessment on the dump does not necessarily require closure of 
the marina.

What is the rush? Again, the interests of the city as a whole should be 
paramount.

City council's desire to keep the marina open and to develop the west pier 
reflects the will of the people of Oshawa, and this should be fulfilled.

Chris Topple Oshawa
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom