Hundreds Attend Public Meeting About Substance Abuse Recovery Center Proposal In South Jersey
By David Spunt
HADDONFIELD, N.J., (CBS) -- More than 400 people packed the Haddonfield High School auditorium Wednesday night to hear about a proposal that would build a drug and alcohol facility just feet from school property.
There is a proposal by Recovery Centers of America to invest millions in a new treatment facility next to the school. The treatment center would be located where the Bancroft School has operated since 1883.
"I don't think there should be something next to a school," neighbor Lisa Goetz told Eyewitness News.
Recovery Centers of America officials based in King of Prussia say the facility is will be secure and the proximity to the high school and homes shouldn't worry neighbors.
"This is voluntary treatment program. People aren't going to be locked down and they're not going to escape. Our patients will be very similar to folks that live here," Dr. Deni Carise told Eyewitness News.
Many Haddonfield residents first learned of the sale in March. Some have even organized a group against the facility moving in next to a high school.
"While I desperately realize the need for this kind of service, my major contention is just that it's the wrong place," one audience member told the crowd.
Bancroft has a new location in Mount Laurel and the school will move in 2017. Back in Haddonfield, borough zoning officials will need to approve a rezoning. Sources tell Eyewitness News that process could take several months.
For more on Recovery Centers of America, visit their website here:
www.recoverycentersofamerica.com/
