DRUG-ABUSE PROGRAM GETS NOD IN SURREY

A $5-million drug-and-alcohol recovery program is going ahead in Surrey
after it passed the public-hearing stage yesterday.

"We're thrilled," said Michael Wilson, executive-director at the Phoenix
Drug and Alcohol Recovery Society. "Surrey is the most rapid, dynamic,
growing city in the country. Its health and human services have not kept
pace. This will help address the shortage."

Funding will be provided by the province, the feds and private groups under
a 3-P -- public-private-partnership -- format. The program will have 28 beds
for addiction services and 36 transitional housing units.

"There are transition beds and access to employment," said Wilson. "It takes
time to change your lifestyle."

The centre will be running in about 20 months near Surrey Memorial Hospital
in the 13600-block of 94 A Avenue.

- - A controversial pub application in Ocean Park was passed after councillors
voted 5-4 in favour of a liquor licence.

The pub at 1575 128A Ave. will seat 190 people.