METHADONE CLINIC MAY BE OPEN IN CONCORD BY END OF MONTH

CONCORD, N.H. --A methadone clinic planned for vacant office space is
close to receiving state and federal approval and could be open by
the end of the month.

The clinic would treat people addicted to heroin, oxycontin and
prescription drugs such as percocet.

Neighboring business owners, even city planning, zoning and health
officials, said they were not notified about the plan. The clinic was
not required to go before the city council or other city boards
because the property already was zoned for a medical facility that
provides out-patient care.

Police Chief Jerry Madden said a methadone clinic could be a good
idea in Concord if it helps alleviate the city's growing heroin
problem. He said he doesn't think residents need to be concerned
about security near the clinic or the patients who come and go.

The state's first methadone clinic opened in Hudson in 1999. Since
then, clinics have opened in Manchester, Nashua, Somersworth and one
is nearly ready to open in Swanzey.