HERMITAGE Clinic users prompt concerns
Residents complain of speeding, stop sign violations and petty thefts.
HERMITAGE, Pa. -- Residents living near a methadone clinic on East State Street are concerned about what they believe to be improper conduct by people going to the center for treatment.
City Manger Gary Hinkson said the city has had a number of complaints from people living near Discovery House at 1868 E. State St., and the city commissioners asked representatives of the center to attend Thursday's work session to discuss the issue.
Residents have complained about speeding and stop sign violations and there have also been reports from area businesses about petty thefts, Hinkson said.
Speeding cars
One woman resident of the area said she has seen speeding cars drive into the center's parking lot, leading her to believe that the program's clients are the culprits, he said.
Hinkson said Ken Tressler, program director for Discovery House, addressed the issue at the work session, offering to set up a local citizens advisory committee to meet with Discovery House and city officials on a periodic basis to discuss concerns.
Tressler said that clients are advised not to use residential streets to get to the clinic and the clients don't want problems, Hinkson said.
However, Tressler couldn't deny that some clients might be responsible for some of the concerns raised, Hinkson said.
Hinkson said Tressler outlined the clinic's operations, explained the use of methadone for treating drug addiction and pointed out that the clinic clients come from all walks of life. Some have six-figure incomes.
Hinkson said Tressler told the commissioners that he will meet with the city police chief about creating the advisory committee and take steps to deal with anyone breaking the law or causing problems in the area.