Possible drug clinic raises concerns

WEST HAVEN, Conn. (WTNH) -- A battle is brewing in West Haven over plans to build a drug and mental health clinic in one neighborhood.

There has been a legal fight over whether or not it can be built.

The vacant building on Boston Post Road is surrounded by a number of businesses, homes on side streets, and two bars directly to the side and across the street, which caused another concern. Not to mention, the foundation doesn't feel a special zoning permit is needed.

"We've had a lot of break-ins here and we have to answer to our customers," said Sammy Rivera, Budget Transmission, owner.

Now, Rivera is concerned that a proposed substance abuse and mental health clinic just steps away could cause more problems for him at work and at home. He lives just around the corner.

"It's too close to home," he said. "I have my kid walking up and down everyday when he gets off the bus."

A big concern are the two bars right near the proposed rehab location.

"I guess there's a controlled part when they're open, but what happens after hours," questioned Rivera.

Rivera already attended a public hearing speaking out against APT Foundation's proposal. It's main branch is at Long Wharf in New Haven. APT's mission is "to promote health and recovery for those who live with substance use disorders and/or mental illness."

The president of the University of New Haven, and other businesses and homeowners also wrote letters and spoke out against the outpatient clinic.

"Not to discriminate, we'd just feel a little more comfortable without that type of institution in our immediate area," said Dennis Williams, of West Haven.

"We want our neighborhood safe and it could cause a big problem to the community," said Fred McKnight, of West Haven.

APT is now saying they don't feel they need a special permit from Planning and Zoning, and that they have the right to open in the vacant space, in the 800 block of Boston Post Road.

West Haven's Assistant City Planner Harry Eberhart disagrees.

He says the application will not come up before the Planning and Zoning Commision at Tuesday night's meeting, but the fight is far from over.