TREATMENT CENTRE FOR DRUG-ADDICTED WOMEN PROPOSED IN RURAL ABBOTSFORD

A treatment centre for drug-addicted women proposed in a rural area of
Abbotsford has been approved in principle by city councillors.

Yesterday, council was told B.C. Teen Challenge has applied to rezone
property at 4131 Lakemount Rd. - with an existing single-family home - for
a rehabilitation centre that would house up to 12 women.

The proposal has drawn the support of the Abbotsford Downtown Business
Association, which told council it "addresses our concern for the addict by
moving them to property outside of town.

"We strongly support treatment for these female addicts where they can be
removed from their great sphere of influence and the many triggers that
exist in the downtown," said the ADBA.

The rezoning would change the property from one-unit urban residential to
special housing (P4).

However, Coun. Moe Gill, while supporting the concept, was concerned the
entire 52-acre parcel could be zoned for an institutional use, which he
felt would not be a good idea in a rural/agricultural part of Abbotsford.

Staff pointed out the facility would operate under a covenant to limit it
to 12 beds, and that if necessary only a two or three portion could be rezoned.

Said Coun. Mark Warawa: "We have a drug and prostitution problem in
Abbotsford and they (Teen Challenge) are here to help. "The sooner we have
this up and running the better for our community," he said.

Coun. Ed Fast agreed: "In 20 years we may have an even more serious
problem, and we may need 50 beds."

The rezoning now goes before a future council public hearing.