Group homes are a vital way station for troubled youngsters trying to right their lives, but the Rowan County Planning Board had good reason to oppose rezoning for one in a residential neighborhood.
For starters, approval of the group home would have required rezoning a single lot in the middle of a subdivision — a piecemeal approach that would set a bad precedent for future residential rezoning requests. Although one might argue that a group home for three children is little different than a home-based business currently allowed, changing the zoning for a single lot flies in the face of the purpose of the current zoning — to protect the stability and residential nature of such neighborhoods.
The board and Westridge subdivision residents also were understandably disturbed to learn of previous problems at other homes operated by Developmental Independent Care Services. Those problems included the use of alcohol and sexual activity at some homes. While the employees responsible for those lapses were disciplined, the incidents raise legitimate concerns about supervision at the homes, especially among nearby residents who have children.
In some cases, opposition to group homes for disturbed youths simply reflects a “not in my backyard” attitude that exaggerates the potential for problems. These homes serve a real need; their clients are not hardened criminals but youths who often have gotten into trouble because they come from home environments that are abusive or neglectful. Well-managed group facilities can provide support and discipline that can help turn around a life — but only if the community at large accepts and supports them.
In this case, however, the planning board and residents have some clearcut reasons to reject the rezoning, and the county commission should follow their recommendation.
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