By Pepper Fisher, Aug 9, 2019, Local News 

SEQUIM – At Thursday evening’s MAT clinic meeting presented by the Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe, some 700-800 people squeezed into Guy Cole Center in Sequim, with a hundred more seated outside to listen to the proceedings broadcast over speakers.

Opponents of the proposed clinic were matched in number by supporters, but a solid law enforcement presence and the decision to start the proceedings with a prayer calling for civility contributed to easing tensions in the room.

Overall, attendees consistently applauded for statements they agreed with and refrained from booing and shouting down others, as has happened at other recent meetings on the topic.

The tribe plans the clinic on 20 acres it owns near the Sequim Costco.  Officials say it will offer medically assisted treatment for opioid addiction with “wrap-around” services such as counseling, child care and job coaching.  A second phase would include mental health care. Olympic Medical Center, Jefferson Healthcare and Peninsula Behavioral Health are partnering with the tribe on the project.
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