SWATARA TOWNSHIP, Pa. (WHP) — In a renewed attempt to address the ongoing substance abuse crisis, a health rehabilitation company is once again proposing to transform a local hotel in Swatara Township into a drug treatment center, aiming to provide essential support for those in need.
CBS21 News had previously reported in June that the township’s zoning hearing board had turned down the initial proposal from the Philadelphia-based company, which was ultimately dismissed due to concerns over inadequate security measures and potential disruption to the community.
During a crucial meeting scheduled for this Thursday, township officials are set to cast their votes on Soar Corp Recovery Center’s revised plan. However, residents in the neighboring Chambers Hill community remain steadfast in their opposition, expressing skepticism that any modifications to the proposal would change their stance.
Soar Corp’s new initiative focuses on converting the Red Lion Hotel, located on Lindle Road, into a substantial inpatient facility with the capacity to accommodate 200 to 220 beds dedicated to non-hospital substance abuse treatment. This revised figure reflects a notable reduction from the initial proposal, which aimed for a 350-bed setup along with an outpatient methadone maintenance program.
Neighbor Pat Horner articulated the community’s worries, stating, “It really doesn’t make a difference. It makes some difference, where you’re not going to have as much traffic as a methadone clinic will. But you’re still gonna have traffic and you’re still going to have the same type of people in the facility.” Horner further questioned the motives of the facility’s owner, pondering, “I mean, if this was such a great idea, why doesn’t the owner put it beside his house or in his community?”
In the previous meeting, Soar Corp Recovery’s CEO attempted to address community concerns by assuring residents of enhanced safety protocols. He promised the presence of security personnel patrolling the premises around the clock, implementing 24/7 supervision, installing alarmed doors, and ensuring that no recreational activities would occur outside the facility.
“We’re still against it. It’s not something we need in our community. These people that come into these centers are not necessarily the best of people to have in your neighborhood,” Horner reiterated, emphasizing the community’s ongoing reservations.
The meeting is expected to begin at 7 p.m., and all eyes will be on the outcome as residents and officials alike prepare to discuss the future of the proposed recovery center.
What changes does Jane Smith believe Soar Corp Recovery Center needs to implement to gain community support?
**Interview with Jane Smith, Local Resident and Community Advocate**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Jane. We’re discussing the recent proposal by Soar Corp Recovery Center to convert a local hotel in Swatara Township into a drug treatment facility. Can you tell us how the community is feeling about this proposed transformation?
**Jane:** Thank you for having me. The sentiment in Chambers Hill is quite mixed, but many residents are opposed to it. Our main concerns stem from the previous rejection due to security issues. We genuinely worry about the potential risks and disruptions that could arise if a treatment center is placed so close to our homes.
**Editor:** I understand those concerns. The township had previously denied the proposal in June. What changes do you believe the Soar Corp Recovery Center needs to make in order to gain community support?
**Jane:** For us to consider supporting this initiative, they would need to provide a more comprehensive plan addressing security measures. The community needs reassurance that the treatment center won’t lead to increased crime or unsafe situations. We also want transparency about how they plan to integrate with the neighborhood positively.
**Editor:** That makes sense. Have there been any discussions between the company and community members to address these concerns directly?
**Jane:** As far as I’m aware, there haven’t been any meaningful dialogues. The company announced their updated proposal, but many residents feel sidelined from the decision-making process. We believe that open communication is vital for any real progress.
**Editor:** With the township officials voting on this revised plan soon, what message would you like to communicate to them?
**Jane:** I urge the officials to prioritize the safety and well-being of our community. They should consider not just the needs of those seeking recovery but also the legitimate concerns of the residents who live nearby. Our voices deserve to be heard when decisions of this magnitude are being made.
**Editor:** Thank you, Jane, for sharing your insights. It’s clear that this issue has significant implications for both the recovery community and local residents. We’ll be watching closely as the vote approaches.
**Jane:** Thank you for the opportunity to speak. We hope for a thoughtful consideration from the township officials.
