Plan for new methadone clinic sparks debate

Perry Hall residents are protesting what could be Baltimore County?s fifth private, for-profit methadone clinic, citing a legally controversial county zoning law banishing them to industrial areas.

More than 500 residents signed a petition opposing a clinic proposed on Belair Road near White Marsh Boulevard, a commercial strip that comes within 90 feet of the nearest home. They are fighting a request by the clinic?s owner for an exception to a zoning law requiring medical clinics ? including methadone facilities ? to be at least 750 feet from homes.