Dear Editor:

We are writing this letter as we have heard there have been inquiries made to the staff in planning and development regarding the specific zone which would allow for a supportive recovery unit, and whether consideration would be given to rezoning to allow for supportive recovery housing.

We are totally aware of the need for supportive recovery homes, more so today than ever before.

We had an informative conversation with someone who is very involved and knowledgeable in the operation of recovery homes.

The key point made to us was that for success, these homes need to be established in tranquil areas where there is no conflict within the neighborhood. You do not want the neighboring community to be resistant as that does not make for a comfortable place to recover.

We have read several testimonies from individuals who have resided in or had a family member in a recovery home. One individual wrote, “The reason most addicts relapse is stress related, and treatment centres are often in neighbourhoods where drugs are a problem.”

He went on to say that when he went to a nice place – away from urban places with the noise and chaos – he was successful and has been clean for 10 years now. There are many of these comments all out there for us to read.

The people who are working very hard, quite noticeably, to establish this home need to really do their homework as to the surroundings and temptations nearby.

We feel a supportive recovery facility should not be established in an R-1 single-family zone. And while it is imperative that our provincial government be very involved in helping to resolve the drug crisis and recovery process, the location of these supportive centres should be left to the municipalities they will open in.

Chuck and Jackie Pawluk

Osoyoos, B.C.

Editor’s note: Locations are approved by the municipality, not the province.