MILWAUKEE — Milwaukee County's First Step Community Recovery Center faces closure as officials work to address a $45 million budget shortfall, sparking concerns from community members who say the facility has been a lifeline for those battling addiction.

The detox center, located at the Marcia P. Coggs Human Services Center, could be eliminated under County Executive David Crowley's proposed $17 million in cuts to addiction recovery programs. The County Board is scheduled to vote on the budget next month.

"It all starts with detox, that's the first door of hope for the people who suffer with addiction in our community," said Bishop Willie Brooks Jr. of Upper Room Bible Church.

Brooks, who helps others recover from addiction, argues that the cuts could have deadly consequences for Milw

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