Pubdate: Fri, 02 Apr 2004
Source: Messenger-Inquirer (KY)
Copyright: 2004 Messenger-Inquirer
Contact:  http://www.messenger-inquirer.com
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1285

DRUG SUMMIT IS REASON FOR OPTIMISM

Watching government at work can be a frustrating process, one that 
sometimes leaves us wondering whether the public's interests are really a 
concern for elected officials.

But even those most cynical of government's role should find reason to be 
encouraged by the efforts of Gov. Ernie Fletcher and Lt. Gov. Steve Pence 
to combat Kentucky's drug problems.

Tuesday, the Drug Control Policy Assessment Summit came to Owensboro, the 
10th stop on a 16-city tour around the state. The turnout was impressive, 
both in terms of local officials and residents who attended, and those from 
around the state who served on the various panels.

It's not so much what was said that creates hope -- the list of problems 
discussed was similar to what law enforcement, treatment professionals and 
prevention specialists have been detailing for years.

What's different this time is that one gets the feeling that those at the 
highest level of state government are really listening -- and willing to do 
what's necessary to attack the problem at its core, not simply promote 
strategies that maintain the status quo.

To be certain, however, combating substance abuse isn't something that 
government can do alone, and that's why these forums are so important. 
Government can put the policies in place, and more critical, can determine 
the levels at which they will be funded.

But it's only through cooperation at the grassroots level that real 
progress can be made. Kentucky as a whole has a problem with substance 
abuse. But the issues we have here may not be quite the same as what other 
communities around the state are experiencing. So it's important that 
government is listening to the people in different communities, and 
tailoring solutions that don't presume one size fits all.

There are a lot of encouraging efforts going on locally that provide hope 
that this problem can be tackled. We know our law enforcement officers are 
some of Kentucky's most dedicated and competent in fighting drugs. And 
several groups and individuals have emerged in recent years to address 
treatment, prevention and education policies.

Now we have a governor and an administration who see combating substance 
abuse as a priority. What must happen next is to ensure that all of these 
groups locally are on the same page and that they understand the problem is 
far too big to allow turf battles to get in the way of progress.

There are no easy answers, and it's still too early to predict what will be 
made of the information collected through the drug summits. But the process 
should be appreciated, and it's reason for optimism.

It's not too late to help: Those who couldn't attend Tuesday's forum can 
still make their suggestions known by completing a questionnaire about 
local substance abuse issues. The forms can be found at 
www.kydrugsummit.ky.gov/.
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MAP posted-by: Terry Liittschwager