CITY HAS A VERY REAL DRUG PROBLEM

Editor:

The article titled "Needle Exchange Scares Customers," appearing in
the June 21 issue of the Times, related the very real concerns of the
small business owners of Spadina and Main Street, who have been
adversely affected by the opening of the needle exchange clinic
nearby. It was encouraging to read that this matter was being brought
to the attention of the community-or at least, that is what I hoped.
The article however, managed to water down the problem
considerably.

The operator of the clinic did not wish to draw attention to her
clients, and that is why the doors opened quietly on May 13. The cozy,
inviting atmosphere of the clinic is charming. Of course Ms. Mohan
does not want to move. It should be said however that her clients have
gained a certain unwelcome notoriety in this high profile are of town.
Exactly what she wanted to avoid. The fact that methadone is dispensed
a few steps away is convenient.

Mind you, a dispensing fee in addition to the medication is generously
paid for by the good citizens of the province. Those same folks who
have to satisfy a hefty deductible before they can obtain medication
free.

It was correctly stated in the article that clients of this clinic are
ill. They do present a host of medical and emotional problems which
require intervention and treatment that should be provided to them in
a facility out of the downtown area, where they cannot harm themselves
or others.

Chilliwack has a very real, disturbing drug problem which is worsening
by the day. The businesses and condominiums in the area have had to
invest hundreds of dollars to protect their premises. Anything that is
not nailed down, locked up or covered is stolen by addicts who need to
steal in order to support their habit. They do not keep regular
business hours. We have all become victims of crime in some form or
another.

Spadina Avenue is home to hundreds of seniors who should not have to
feel threatened when they walk downtown. Ms. Mohan states that seniors
are coming around and some regret signing a petition opposing the
location of the clinic. That is an absolutely astonishing
pronouncement.

I can only wonder where it came from.

On May 13 the tranquility of our neighborhuood changed. Should we now
without a whimper, welcome drug users who give nothing in return, or
should we support the good law abiding citizens and businesses who
contribute to our community?

Let us all hope the officials responsible for the location of the
clinic give their collective heads a shake.

Lorrraine Palmer

Chilliwack