IT'S TIME TO SPEAK UP ON NEED FOR DRUG TREATMENT

Re: "Shunned by society" (Editorial, March 21):

Treatment is a logical and humane solution to our nation's devastating
health problem, addiction. California voters realized that when they
overwhelmingly passed Proposition 36 in November 2000, mandating treatment
instead of incarceration for nonviolent drug offenders.

Unfortunately, as you note, small vocal groups, who are often motivated by
fear and ignorance, often overwhelm politicians to our detriment.

Drug use and drug deals are occurring in most of our neighborhoods. It is
time to realize that the problem of substance abuse impacts all of us, and
that the only solution is recovery and rehabilitation.

We must reach out to our local politicians to let them know that the
majority of their constituency wants, and needs, community-based treatment.

GRETCHEN BURNS BERGMAN

Rancho Santa Fe

Money spent on alcohol and drug treatment is an investment toward reducing
other problems, including crime and violence. Every dollar spent on
treatment has shown a return of $4 to $7 in reduced drug-related crime and
court costs.

There are numerous well-run, quality alcohol and drug treatment facilities
in San Diego County that are licensed, adhere to high standards and have
gained reputations for being good neighbors. Yet, when new or expanded
treatment facilities are proposed, fear and ignorance often result in
screams of "Not in my back yard!" Well, then, where?

Would it be so inappropriate to call upon each and every city in the county
to share in establishing treatment facilities that would be within the
reach of its residents?

CONNIE DAHL

San Diego