Menands Village residents, we find ourselves at a crossroads, faced with an issue that has sparked much debate and concern – the potential operation of an Opioid Treatment Program (OTP) within our community. While the necessity of such facilities is not in question, the location and appropriateness within the context of our village lifestyle is a legitimate concern that deserves attention and clarity.
At the heart of this issue are our Village’s Zoning Laws. More specifically, page 155, which provides the definition of a “medical facility”:
“An institution that is licensed by the New York State Department of Health providing health services, including, but not limited to medical or surgical care to inpatients and outpatients suffering from illness, disease, injury, deformity, and other abnormal physical or mental conditions, including, as an integral part of the institution, such related facilities as laboratories, outpatient departments, training facilities, central service facilities and staff offices. For the purposes of this Chapter, dental offices and “urgent care” facilities shall be considered medical centers.”
On reading this definition, one might argue that an OTP does not fit within this framework. Notably, the emphasis on “medical or surgical care” appears to exclude OTPs, which primarily provide medication-assisted treatment and counseling.
We believe it’s time for our Village to take a definitive stand. The Village needs to go on record stating that OTPs do NOT meet the Zoning for a medical facility and formally codify this.
- Discussion within the Board: The first step is to discuss this idea among the Village Board members to get a sense of agreement or support. This can happen in an official meeting, a work session, or informally depending on your local government’s practices.
- Consultation with Legal Counsel: The Village Board should consult with their municipal attorney or legal counsel to understand the legal implications of this move. The attorney can also help in drafting the precise language for the proposed amendment or clarification.
- Draft a Resolution or Ordinance: Based on the legal advice, the Village Board would draft a resolution or ordinance that formally clarifies or amends the zoning code to specify that OTPs do not meet the requirements for a medical facility.
- Public Hearing (If needed): In many cases, changes to zoning laws or significant clarifications require a public hearing to provide an opportunity for public comment. This step involves giving public notice of the hearing in advance.
- Board Vote: After the public hearing, the Village Board would vote on the resolution or ordinance. If it passes, it becomes part of the official zoning code.
- Notification: Once the amendment or clarification is official, the Village Board should notify relevant parties, like Fusion Recovery, about the new interpretation or changes to the zoning code.
Call to action:
Residents of Menands, we need your support to ensure our community remains a safe and welcoming environment for all. If you agree with this plan, let your voice be heard. Reach out to the Mayor & Trustees and express your support for this course of action. Together, we can make a difference, but we need you to act now. Please share this message with your neighbors and friends in Menands, encourage them to contact the Village Board, and stand with us as we strive for clarity, fairness, and community preservation.