Denise Rosch reporting

A plan to help the Valley's uninsured is getting a chilly reception. This week, the County Commission gave the go-ahead for a free clinic to open near Tropicana and Eastern.

While many agree with the idea of the clinic, it's the location that has many worried.

"It's a well-used park. And I think it's going to attract more cars, more people, and not exactly all desirables," neighbor Helen LaPlant worries.

A battle of sorts has been brewing over the idea of a free health clinic. "I wish they (County Commission) would have listened to the people," neighbor George Watrous complains. "It's just the wrong place for a free medical clinic."

The clinic will share space with an existing children's dental office and be staffed by a group of volunteer doctors, including Dr. Florence Jameson.

"The proximity is perfect to reach the uninsured," Dr. Jameson insists.

Dr. Jameson helped convince county leaders the service is necessary. "If you can afford insurance, that's great. And if you are really, really poor you can get welfare. But what's happened now - we have this population of working uninsured."

While parking near the clinic is limited, Dr. Jameson doesn't believe traffic in or near the park will be a problem. The contract limits the clinic to 6,000 patient visits a year, which, according to Dr. Jameson's figures, breaks down to about three an hour.

Many residents agree with the idea of a free clinic, they're just upset with the choice of location. "Right now we're finding people sleeping there and it's going to get worse," LaPlant said.

The clinic received about $200,000 in start up money from the legislature. It's expected to open in mid-October.