AUSTINTOWN TWP., Ohio - Baltimore-based Concerted Care Group is a methadone clinic that specializes in addiction recovery.

The company has plans to set up treatment services in Austintown, in a portion of the old JC Penny building.

A local resident reached out with questions over whether this could bring a nuisance, loitering or any sort of potential drug-related criminal activity to an area where families frequent local shops and restaurants.

21 News called agencies in each jurisdiction where this company operates its four locations in Maryland and couldn't find an existing concern from anyone we spoke with, from health departments to law enforcement.

Documentation from Cecil County in Maryland said Concerted Care Group is in "good standing and there are no violations, complaints, resident concerns, or fines," after a facility opened there in early 2024. 

County health leaders in Maryland said there are a lot of local benefits for communities with methadone clinics that have seen proven results, with strict guidelines the facilities must follow.

Austintown's Zoning Inspector said Concerted Care Group company has a tenant relationship with the current landlord that has been positive and said nuisance laws would kick right in if something wasn't right.

"It would be medical office staff, nurses, doctors," Inspector Darren Crivelli said, "We anticipate it not to be a problem. If it does become a problem, there's always nuisance law becomes a problem with law enforcement."

Crivelli said Concerted Care Group's final review is underway and without an exact timeframe, the township anticipates issuing a permit "in the near future."

Concerted Care Group was not available to speak Friday.