Callista Wilson: A concerned parent’s view on the LEX program in Laconia

To The Daily Sun,

As a Laconia resident and parent, I’m deeply concerned about the LEX harm reduction program. Over a year ago, The Laconia Daily Sun praised its first year, noting 21,000 syringes distributed and 20,000 collected. While harm reduction aims to reduce disease and overdoses, the reality for families like mine is troubling.

These programs offer syringes, naloxone, test strips, and wound kits to people using drugs. Studies show they reduce HIV and hepatitis C transmission and save lives — but concerns remain.

Some worry individuals come in under the influence, exchanging used needles for new ones, enabling continued drug use without progress toward recovery. Meanwhile, discarded needles remain a danger in public spaces.

There’s also concern about people visibly high walking around town, creating an unsafe atmosphere especially for parents with children. It raises serious questions about whether the program truly addresses the broader impacts of drug use on our community.

In 2022, the Laconia Police Department collected 54 discarded needles. At least 41 were found in 2024 near playgrounds, sledding hills and areas where kids play. As of 2025, LEX is running in Laconia.

With all the homelessness and addiction issues we already face here, why are we offering this program — and not seeking broader solutions? It seems the south side of the city is shouldering most of the burden.

What message does this send to children growing up surrounded by addiction and homelessness? Our kids deserve to feel safe — not navigate parks littered with syringes or pass impaired people on sidewalks.

Concerns about funding persist. Groups may receive grants tied to supply distribution. And most troubling: this program operated for a full year before residents were even informed; no public comment?

Harm reduction alone isn’t enough. Laconia needs a real plan that protects families.

Callista Wilson

Laconia