WEBB SEEKS $512,500 FOR ANTI-DRUG PLAN

Request Faces Opposition

Wednesday, April 03, 2002 - Denver Mayor Wellington Webb is asking the City
Council for approval to spend $512,500 to bolster substance-abuse
prevention and treatment programs.

But even council members who support the proposal say the funding request
will compete with other programs facing budget cuts this year.

"I'm willing to make this a reality," said Councilwoman Elbra Wedgeworth.
"But I am also conscious that this (request) has to be balanced with other
budget cuts. That's only fair."

Earlier this year, the city cut $8 million from the 2002 $780 million
general fund and may be forced to cut another $8 million.

Councilman Ted Hackworth, who chairs the finance committee, has opposed
spending additional money to fight substance abuse.

"Those who oppose these programs will do it based on philosophical reasons,
or they think the money should be better spent elsewhere," Webb said. "It's
not that the money is not available."

The $512,500 would include $112,500 for transitional housing for 18- to
25-year-old homeless addicts; $150,000 to work with Denver Public Schools;
and $250,000 to study the possibility of starting a Betty Ford-type
treatment center to be supported long-term by foundations.

Reports show that in Denver the number of people treated in emergency rooms
for alcohol and drugs is nearly three times the national average.

Officials said one reason the number is so high is lack of treatment statewide.

Webb ultimately will seek more than $2 million for treatment programs,
including adding another drug court and establishing permanent housing for
foster children after they leave the system.