The Times Herald (Norristown, PA)
Church property could be used for addiction treatment
Township officials mull status of property after Archdiocese of Philadelphia announced plans to sell to Montgomery County Recovery Center
East Norriton Township Manager Robert R. Hart and Board of Supervisor Chairman Dennis DeSanto met recently to discuss concerns about the status of St. Titus R.C. Church property on Keenwood Road.
According to Hart, since the Laurel House gave up its legal fight to move into the parish rectory, the Archdiocese of Philadelphia intends to sell half of St. Titus property.
In August 2016 the Laurel House, a shelter for abused women, won a zoning decision from the East Norriton Zoning Hearing Board allowing it to move from its cramped Norristown location on Dec. 16, 2015.
A dozen neighbors of the St. Titus R.C. Church rectory opposed to the shelter and filed a lawsuit challenging the zoning decision in early 2016.
Now, the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, plans to sell half the property to Montgomery County Recovery Center.
According to its website, “MCRC is a licensed methadone treatment program. Medication assisted treatment in conjunction with counseling and supportive services are provided to support those struggling with addiction to recover. Drug therapy and counseling program for recovering narcotic addicts from all socio-economic levels. All are medically and psychologically approved for methadone treatment. HIV/AIDS testing and counseling and TB testing for all clinic clients.”
It’s main office is located at 316 DeKalb Street in Norristown.
“Their goal is to put in a treatment center for opioid recovery,” said Hart, “which all of us in the township know is crucial.”
Hart emphasized the importance of opioid recovery was unanimously agreed on at East Norriton Township.
“The mission they face is more crucial than ever and we want them to succeed,” said Hart. “We know churches always have financial issues. We could help them find a better plan, but if they chose not to meet with us, our hands are tied.”
“This is not something we condone or vilify, “said DeSanto, “The intent they’ve posted has our (the township) letter head on it,” said DeSanto referring to the zoning permit posted at the grounds entrance, “We’ve gotten a lot of inquiries.”
There is no building permit, only a use permit, but according to Hart, “things are happening quickly.”
According to Hart, the RECOVERY >> PAGE 5
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