A proposed triage center aimed to address the growing opioid crisis in Kensington has sparked outcry from a local Philadelphia councilmember. Jeffery Young, Jr. of the 5th District publicly criticized the Parker Administration for its lack of communication and transparency regarding the selection of a location for the facility. In a statement obtained by Philadelphia City Council's official website, Young expressed deep concerns over the site at 2100 W. Girard, noting it was chosen without any engagement with his office or the Fairmount community.

According to the statement of the Philadelphia City Council, the property, which is currently zoned RM-1, would require approval from the Zoning Board of Adjustment to legally operate as a hospital or medical facility. Young insists he "does not support a triage center at this location without undergoing a thorough review and discussion with the community" to effectively address concerns, including its proximity to four schools. Girard College, Young's alma mater, stands directly across the proposed site, heightening personal involvement and constituency consideration in the debate.

The Parker Administration's move to potentially situate the triage center near educational institutions has been met with alarm and a reminder of the necessary bureaucratic processes safeguarding the interests of the populace. Young outlined, "It is unacceptable to undertake such a significant project without consulting the communities and stakeholders who will be most affected," as per the Philadelphia City Council.

While acknowledging efforts to combat the opioid plague afflicting Kensington, Young emphasized that the focus should be on solutions that meet people where they are and "to provide the immediate critical medical care they desperately need," as mentioned on the press release.