Acadia Healthcare terminates methadone clinic lease at Chestnut Street ahead of schedule

In the heart of Lebanon County, a pivotal government meeting unfolded, addressing key issues that will shape the community's future. The Lebanon County Commissioners convened on May 15, 2025, to discuss significant developments, including the early termination of a lease agreement with Acadia Health Care and the extension of vital funding for public defense services.

The meeting began with a discussion about Acadia Health Care's methadone clinic, located near the sewage treatment center on Chestnut Street. After negotiations, the county agreed to an early termination of the lease, which will now conclude on May 31, 2025. Acadia will pay a total of $127,765.44, covering the remaining lease payments until November 2026. This financial commitment is crucial as the proceeds will support the county's drug and alcohol commission programs, ensuring continued resources for addiction treatment services.

As the conversation shifted, Megan Sitwell, the Chief Public Defender, presented an exciting opportunity for the county. The indigent defense fund, initially set to expire at the end of 2025, has been extended through December 31, 2026, with an additional allocation of $99,066. This funding will allow the county to retain essential staff, including a part-time social services advocate and a mental health attorney, while also introducing an innovative AI-assisted legal research tool, Westlaw Precision. This tool aims to enhance efficiency in legal research, potentially transforming how public defenders operate.

The meeting also addressed the approval of real estate tax exemptions for several disabled veterans, reflecting the county's commitment to supporting those who have served. Additionally, the commissioners reappointed members to the Lebanon County Commission on Drug and Alcohol Abuse Advisory Council, ensuring continuity in leadership for critical community health initiatives.

As the meeting concluded, the commissioners expressed optimism about the future, highlighting the importance of these decisions in fostering a healthier, more supportive environment for Lebanon County residents. With the groundwork laid for new initiatives and continued support for existing programs, the county is poised to navigate the challenges ahead with renewed vigor and purpose.