Augusta, Maine, Considering ‘Needle Exchange’ Program

Over the last few years, Maine's capital city has really "bounced back."

For decades, Augusta's downtown had been on a steady decline.  The once-thriving commercial district was filled with empty storefronts and businesses barely hanging on.

Then, slowly, several enterprising residents worked to turn the downtown around.  Buildings were restored and updated, new shops and eateries took over empty storefronts, and several family-friendly festivals began being held in downtown Augusta.

This progress even continued throughout the pandemic.

Despite the positive changes in Augusta, it does not mean the city does not still have its problems.

Two of the biggest problems the city now faces are homelessness and drug abuse.

Of course, with rampant drug abuse comes thousands of hypodermic needles.  While it is good to see that the addicted are not sharing and reusing needles, these needles are often not disposed of properly.  Instead, they are discarded on our sidewalks, in our parking lots, and in our parks.

According to the KJ, Augusta city councilors are considering implementing a controversial program that would limit the number of needles littering our streets.

The newspaper reported that the program would allow people to turn in a used needle in exchange for five cents.

Proponents are confident that the program if enacted, would reduce the number of needles littering our streets.  Opponents, however, are concerned that such a program would encourage drug use and that some people would put themselves at risk to get the nickel refund for each needle.

As there are already needle exchange programs in Augusta, the city may try to partner with an already existing program.

Other Maine communities have already implemented similar programs.  Portland, for example, pays people five cents per needle, according to the KJ.  That program comes with a $10 per day cap that is intended to prevent people from seeking out used needles as a way to make money.

Sanford has had an exchange program in place for some time. Recently, they voted to limit the number of new needles you can receive when turning in a used needle. Previously, the program allowed for an exchange of 100 new needles for each used needle. Now, however, the exchange is limited to one new needle for each used needle returned.

The council has tasked city manager Jared Mills with researching the proposed plan.

There is currently no scheduled date for the next discussion about the plan.

What is your opinion about the plan?  Please let us know by sending us a message inside our app.