PORTLAND (AP) – The company that is seeking to open a methadone clinic in Rockland filed a federal lawsuit Thursday claiming the city violated federal disability laws when it changed its zoning to force the proposed clinic to a remote part of the city.

Turning Tide Inc. last year signed a lease to open a clinic on Park Street in downtown Rockland.

But after the plans became public, residents objected to having a methadone clinic anywhere in the city – but particularly at the gateway to Rockland and near a Head Start school and homes.

Methadone is dispensed to addicts to curb their craving for heroin, Oxycontin or other opium-based drugs.

Health officials say clinics are needed because of a surge in the number of Mainers seeking treatment for their addiction.

In response to residents’ concerns, Rockland city councilors made zoning changes that allowed methadone clinics only along a small stretch of Route 90 in a remote corner of the city.

The lawsuit alleges Rockland officials violated federal law protecting people with disabilities when it changed the zoning to force the proposed clinic away from the downtown.

The lawsuit claims the city’s actions violate the Americans With Disabilities Act of 1990, the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, various clauses of the U.S. Constitution, the Maine Human Rights Act and other statutes and common law.

“We are still open to any and all discussions with the city about alternatives,” said John Doyle Jr., a Portland attorney representing Turning Tide.

Doyle said the 21-page lawsuit seeks a court order allowing a clinic to open at the site on Park Street or any other place in the city that allows medical clinics.

He said his client has concluded the Route 90 zone is not economically feasible or safe for a clinic.

Rockland Mayor Tom Molloy declined comment about the lawsuit until talking with the city’s attorney.