Live Oak City Council Approves Increased Occupancy for Detox Center at 912 Avenue I

During the recent Fort Pierce Planning Board meeting, a significant discussion centered around a conditional use application for the Live Oak Detox Center, located at 912 Avenue I. The facility, which has been operational since 1987, is seeking to increase its occupancy from 14 to 16 clients. This request comes as the center aims to enhance its capacity to provide medically monitored withdrawal services in a structured environment for individuals recovering from substance abuse.

The Live Oak Detox Center is situated on approximately 0.56 acres in a medium-density residential zone, surrounded by single-family homes and vacant parcels. The facility is licensed by the Florida Department of Children and Family Services and accredited by the Joint Commission, ensuring compliance with state and city regulations.

In February, the city commission had previously approved the operation of the detox facility with 14 clients, contingent upon several conditions. These included providing adequate parking, restriping existing parking stalls, installing landscaping, addressing any violations reviewed by the special magistrate, and constructing a fence around the property—all of which have reportedly been completed by the applicant, Haley Neely.

The planning board's review process for conditional uses, as outlined in city code, is designed to ensure that such facilities operate within the community's standards and regulations. The proposed increase in occupancy is expected to have implications for both the facility's operations and its surrounding neighborhood, as it seeks to balance the needs of recovery services with residential community dynamics.

As the board continues to evaluate the application, the outcome will be pivotal in determining the future of the Live Oak Detox Center and its role in supporting individuals in recovery within Fort Pierce. The discussions reflect broader themes of community health and the integration of supportive services in residential areas, highlighting the ongoing challenges and considerations in urban planning and public health.