Idaho drug center moves ahead
Friday, November 21, 2008 11:12 AM PST
NAMPA (AP) — A 92-bed drug and alcohol treatment center will probably be operating next fall in Nampa, officials in southwest Idaho say.
The Nampa City Council on Monday approved the design concept for the $4 million, 23,000-square-foot building to house the Unio Recovery Center, the Idaho Statesman reported.
Jeff Needs, a developer, said one more public meeting to give the proposal a third reading is necessary before the land can be rezoned to a residential professional designation. The meeting is scheduled for Dec. 1.
‘‘This is something our area sorely needs,’’ Mayor Tom Dale said.
Some residents initially objected to the location when a public hearing was held by the city Planning Commission earlier this year, but opposition disappeared when the proposal was considered by the City Council.
Robert Hobbs, assistant planning director for Nampa, said a meeting with area residents helped dispel concerns about security and whether the building would look institutional.
At Monday’s meeting, Needs outlined plans for the two-story building with a gabled rood and stone veneer pillars.
He said the plan would add an attractive building to the ‘‘front door of Nampa.’’ The building is planned for a busy boulevard.
Brenda Storey, Unio executive director, said recovery programs last about 30 to 60 days, and those undergoing treatment remain at the center.
She said she would like to add outpatient treatment and treatment for adolescents.
Storey said the company also runs alcohol and drug disorder programs in Ontario, Ore., with about 10 percent of those being treated coming from Idaho.
Needs said the center would employ 30 to 40 people.
