City board debates controversial youth group home application

The Reynoldsburg Planning and Zoning Board convened on August 15, 2024, to discuss a conditional use application for a group dwelling at 1239 Fletcher Drive, submitted by Tyler Martin of Foundation of Love For Youth LLC. The meeting began with the roll call and approval of the agenda, followed by a public comment session that yielded no general comments.

The application, previously reviewed by the board, has raised concerns due to a significant number of police calls—29 from June 2022 to June 2024—related to the applicant's other location in Columbus, primarily concerning missing children and various disturbances. In response, the city attorney proposed a set of stringent recommendations aimed at addressing safety and operational standards for the proposed facility.

Key recommendations include limiting the number of juveniles residing in the home to four, with a maximum age difference of two years, and prohibiting residents with sex offense convictions. The applicant must also establish written policies for resident conduct and removal procedures, ensuring no drugs or firearms are present on the premises. Violations of these provisions could lead to the immediate revocation of the conditional use permit.

The board discussed the necessity of a site plan to meet parking requirements, with the applicant proposing to expand parking to accommodate four vehicles. The conditional use standards were reviewed, and the board considered the implications of the city attorney's recommendations on the approval process.

The applicant has expressed agreement with the proposed conditions and provided additional documentation, including an admissions policy that outlines exclusion criteria for potential residents. The board is expected to deliberate further on the application, weighing community safety against the need for such facilities in the area.