North Sound News

Everett's Planning Commission to hear from public ahead of vote on methadone clinic

EVERETT, Wash. — The Everett's Planning Commission will hold a public hearing Tuesday night to take testimony on allowing a second methadone clinic to operate in the city.

Right now, the city’s zoning code allows for just one facility, but the planning commission could change that.

The city staff has recommended the area near 24th Street and Broadway north of Downtown Everett as a potential site for the clinic that would treat patients addicted to opioids.

The current methadone clinic is located off Evergreen Way South Everett. It currently serves more than 800 patients each year, with close to 200 others on the waiting list.

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KIRO 7 talked to the clinic’s operator, 'Therapeutic Health Services'.

They said it’s time to expand and the 24th and Broadway location works for two main reasons: Its distance from the first clinic and its proximity to public transportation and other social services programs.

Near that intersection is a play center for kids with special needs called “Wee Fit”. The owner, Melissa Wren, says she is upset the city is considering this location as a new methadone clinic.

“Even without the methadone clinic, there’s still a ton of crimes, vandalism, people walking around the streets with needles in their hands,” says Wren. “I just don't think it would be good us, the community, any of the businesses around here.”

The Everett planning commission will be hearing public comments at the meeting at the City Council chambers starting at 630 p.m.