TREATMENT CENTRE OPPOSED

Members of a southwest community are fighting a substance abuse treatment
centre for women proposed for their neighbourhood.

Cliff Bungalow residents argue the Aventa Special Care Facility proved by
the city in July -- would bring increased traffic woes and undesirables
into their neighbourhood -- all of which would hurt property values.

They also say they're concerned for the safety of their children, including
those who attend a day care adjacent to the proposed treatment centre,
which is slated to take over a building currently housing a nursing home in
April 2003.

MOM WORRIED

"I think these people should be treated and I don't have too many concerns
about the patients, but what about the people they might attract -- am I
going to see pimps on my street?" said Sarah Deschenes, who lives with her
four children three doors down from the centre site.

The centre, to be located at 610 25 Ave. S.W., and operated by the
non-profit Aventa Addiction Treatment for Women organization, would house
36 residents and offer services for up to 20 outpatients.

Aventa executive director Cathy Wood said the facility would not be
treating patients forced to appear there by the courts.

The city's Subdivision and Development Appeal Board will hear the case on
Sept. 19.