Pubdate: Thu, 13 Jan 2005 Source: Red Deer Express (CN AB) Copyright: 2005 Red Deer Express Contact: http://www.reddeerexpress.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/2920 Author: Erin Fawcett DETOX CENTRE BACKLASH Residents living in the downtown area of the proposed detoxification centre and mat shelter site don't want it in their backyard. The proposed site for the centre and shelter is the former EXH Engineering building located at 5409-50 Avenue. "It would be right across the back alley from me," said Beverly, who didn't want her last name used. The detox centre must be approved by the Municipal Planning Commission before any advancements can occur. If approved, the centre will be equipped with 20 mat shelter for intoxicated clients as well as 20 beds for people who need to detoxify. The centre will also have offices for management, a kitchen area, washrooms and laundry facilities. "I just don't think you put a place like that where residents with small children live," said Beverly. Michael Dawe, city archivist, who also owns part of the house Beverly lives in had strong concerns about the 20 mat shelter. "A mat service is not a treatment program," he said. "It's for individuals who are already inebriated or high on drugs to spend the night." At a Chamber of Commerce luncheon yesterday Jim Taylor, the project development manager for the Safe Harbour Society said public safety is not an issue with the detox centre and mat shelter. "People who are using the shelters are grateful for a place to stay," he said. "They aren't interested in causing problems." Taylor said the detox centre and mat shelter need to be put together in the same building because of the terms of a $750,000 indefinite annual grant given by AADAC. "The model works well anyways, it gets people from the mat program to the detox program," said Taylor. "They will see their friends in detox and getting clean and they will do it too." However, that doesn't ease the concerns of area residents. A petition is currently being passed around the neighbourhood for the objection of the detox centre and mat shelter. It is hoped the petition will be presented to the city's municipal planning commission and council. Shane Young, a local artist and an 11-year resident of the area said the detox and mat shelter wouldn't really affect him but he is concerned for Beverly. "Beverly has a very valid point," he said. "The centre would be way too close to where she is." Taylor said he sympathizes with area residents. "I do feel for the people who have to have it (the detox centre and mat shelter) next to them," he said. "I wouldn't want it next to me either." An open house for the proposed detox centre and mat service will take place on Jan. 20 at 5409-50 Avenue from 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Identical presentations are scheduled for 3:30 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. The proposal is scheduled to go to the city's Municipal Planning Commission on Jan. 31. - --- MAP posted-by: SHeath(DPFFLorida)