The special meeting was chaired by Conference Vice President H. Brent Coles of Boise, who also co-chairs the Drug Control Task Force along with Mayor Scott King of Gary. In his address and discussions with the mayors, President Pastrana spoke of the importance of increased cooperation and collaboration between the United States and Colombia in addressing illegal drug production, consumption and trafficking, and the scourge this trade presents to both societies. While over 80 percent of all of the meth used by U.S. citizens is supplied by major Mexican drug organizations, the remaining 10 to 20 percent of domestically produced meth is a major cost on society. As covered in the video presentation, meth is being produced in dangerous labs with deadly chemicals exposed to children and adults.
Explosions are common, and there is often severe environmental damage from meth production.
Meth is being produced domestically from products which can be bought over the counter such as drain cleaner, paint thinner, starter fluid, pseudo-amphetamines, batteries and red phosphorus. Local police and fire personnel must be equipped with special safety suits in order to come in contact with the highly toxic chemicals. In preparing for the meeting, the Conference of Mayors sent a questionnaire to members on the impact of meth in their communities. Over 60 mayors responded in a short time period, and these responses will be compiled and used by the Conference in the continuing fight against meth in America. CASA has been working closely with the Conference of Mayors over the past year in preparation for the January 26 meeting.