Hometown Mayor Signs License for Methadone Clinic Despite Council Pushback

Mayor Frank Finnegan has signed a business license for a new substance abuse and mental health clinic in the Hometown Plaza, a decision finalized after a contentious Oct. 27 city council meeting. The clinic, named Roseate New Beginnings, is planned for 4127 W. 87th St. and is scheduled to open after the holiday season.

Dr. Whitney Castle, a podiatrist and co-owner of a local foot care practice, appeared before the council to present the project. While the facility will focus primarily on mental health and substance abuse counseling, it will also provide methadone treatment. Castle stated that most counseling sessions will occur over the phone, reflecting changes in accessibility rules following the pandemic.

A large group of residents attended the meeting, many of whom expressed surprise at the proposal. Several attendees and council members said they had not received prior notification from the mayor regarding the methadone component of the business. Concerns raised included potential loitering, drug dealing, needle safety, and medication diversion.

One resident voiced opposition to the treatment model, asking, “Why are we not helping them get off the drugs instead of giving them stuff?” The same resident described the approach as allowing patients to become intoxicated and commit crimes, stating, “I'm totally against it.” Other attendees questioned the security staffing levels and the safety of children in the vicinity.

Castle clarified her role in the facility’s operations during her presentation. She noted that state law requires a medical director with a medical degree to handle new patient intakes and oversee clinical operations. “I am not an MD. I'm a podiatrist,” Castle said. “So I'm only allowed to be an owner of the facility.” She added that her background allows her to assist with dosing if needed.

The clinic will operate limited weekday hours, from 7 a.m. to noon, with extended hours for group counseling. Methadone will be dispensed in pill form or via injection. Patients will undergo urine testing to monitor for other controlled substances and receive a blood draw at their first intake. Castle explained that the process is designed for quick visits, with patients receiving a vial of medication for one to four weeks at a time.

Security measures include an extensive camera system required by state law and an alarmed safe for storing methadone. Castle plans to hire a security guard as patient numbers increase. She does not expect to store other controlled substances on the premises. After receiving the city license, the business must apply to the Illinois Department of Human Services, a process that takes 30 to 45 days, followed by a final assessment by the Drug Enforcement Administration.

Ald. Gary Dolan, representing the 4th Ward, said Castle’s presentation addressed some of his questions. “I feel a little bit reassured,” Dolan said. “What concerns me is that she is a podiatrist. It seems like kind of a leap. Let’s wait and see.”

Finnegan explained that the city could not deny the license because the business meets all zoning and code requirements. He apologized to Ald. Brian Barnhouse and Ald. Melissa Casey-Weber, whose 2nd Ward includes the plaza, for not informing them earlier. The mayor cited his first time handling such an application as the reason for the communication gap. “My only flaw was better communication and if we denied or revoked them we would have had a lawsuit,” Finnegan said.

The final step for the clinic is an inspection by the city building inspector. Once that inspection is successful, the license will be formally turned over to the owner.