METHADONE CLINIC NOT AN ELECTION ISSUE

I just finished reading the essay by Tracey Mills of Socastee ("Methadone
clinic is legal issue, not moral one," Jan. 30). I wonder if she felt the
same way when the clinic wanted to open its doors in Socastee (successfully
defeated).

It is truly amazing how everyone wants to turn this into an election issue.
First of all, Ms. Mills, I was with Thad Viers when the comment was made.

He had just heard numerous residents, I being one of them, state that they
would contact their council representatives to ask for the dismissal of the
present zoning board. He made the statement as a comment to what he had
just heard. Nothing more, nothing less.

The issue of morality has not even come into question. The location being
near a school and long-established businesses is and will always be the
issue. But I guess our rights as longtime residents and business owners are
not a factor as long as it doesn't affect your neighborhood.

While driving to work this morning, I saw a man who was obviously trying to
figure out which planet he was on strolling down the road near where
children were lining up for a school bus. I don't think our fears were
unfounded.

I have followed this issue since it came to light and will still fight to
keep our area safe and secure, even if it means stepping on toes of fellow
Horry County residents who don't drive past the place each and every day
and live far enough away that it doesn't affect them.

One thing I must say about this essay is it sure sounds familiar to essays
written back in June 2002 when the Republican runoff was in full swing. Get
some new material.

John Wierszewski