Plan for group home in Upper Prov sparks concerns
UPPER PROVIDENCE >> Concerned residents filled council chambers for their regular February meeting anticipating a discussion on a proposed group home. For the most part, they will have to wait until council holds a Conditional Use Hearing in April.
Many neighbors near the 2978 N. Providence Road home had received a township email regarding the application. Only a few appeared to have attended the January planning commission meeting where the project was first presented and given a unanimous recommendation for approval. Situated in a residential zoned district, the stately stone house on 3.5 acres may permit a group home if satisfying all conditions of township ordinances. The hearing before council will include testimony of the applicant and public comment.
Those attending council’s February session were poised to ask questions, as well as state opinions on the facility’s potential location. One resident said he anticipated a “dialogue” with council. That presented procedural problems, explained Chairwoman Beth Glassman. All of council had not heard the presentation and could not provide answers.
“We must have the applicant present. We cannot respond if we have not heard the presentation from the applicant,” said Glassman.
In a telephone interview for this article, project attorney Dennis McAndrews provided details on the application. The site was purchased by one individual, living in the region, for this specific purpose. Described as a “stone manor,” it is currently configured with five bedrooms, six baths and 9,325 square feet of living space. The group home, which will be known as Clark’s Manor, is expected to have up to eight adult residents who, in McAndrews words, have “chronic but not acute mental health issues.”
The programming will be provided by Elwyn Inc, based on established criteria and standards. The facility will have 24-hour supervision by staff on a work schedule, but who are not expected to live in the residence. In terms of the property itself, all and any code requirements will be met, according to comments by both McAndrews and township Manager Greg Lebold.
McAndrews said notification was sent to homes in proximity to the home as per township requirements. Project representatives subsequently met with three council members and six nearby residents.
“We are willing to meet again to hear concerns,” said McAndrews, noting property issues being raised included fencing and landscaping.
Those at the council meeting had wide-ranging issues. In general matters, potential traffic generated and the nature of residents were questioned. More personal concerns appeared to include property values and community safety. On a technical level, some asked if the use was commercial and therefore needed a change of zoning; the exact ordinance number enabling a group home as a conditional use; and the procedure being followed.
Township Solicitor Carl Ewald restated Glassman’s explanation that council is the determining body. The hearing could be one session or more depending on testimony of the applicant and potentially residents with standing. A decision might or might not be rendered immediately on completion. Ewald clearly made the point, “it won’t operate until approved.”
Residents were already lobbying to have the date of April 9 changed due to holiday or vacation considerations. Glassman agreed to look into the matter and also to reserve the Rose Tree Fire House if a large audience is anticipated.