Committee hears support for Harmony House plan to add one bed at 799 Stettleton Avenue

The Planning and Economic Development Committee heard a conditional-use petition from Harmony House Inc. to establish a group home at 799 Stettleton Avenue that would house up to six adult residents, including a live-in resident advisor.

Planning staff said the three-story dwelling was built in 1920, contains six bedrooms and two bathrooms and was purchased by Harmony House in July 2025. The organization told the city that the house would primarily serve adults typically aged 18 to 24 who have completed Harmony House programs but remain unable to afford market-rate rents. Staff and the planning commission recommended approval, noting the zoning code permits only five unrelated adults in a single-family home and that the conditional-use request is therefore required. Staff added that adding one additional individual to the dwelling should not be intrusive to the neighborhood, subject to conditions.

Carla McDay, a resident, spoke in support and described Harmony House’s operations: she said the organization has been open since February 2014, operates 14 locations, and was housing dozens of young people across sites. Reverend Pamela Pinkney also urged support and asked the council to consider the permanence and supportive services for residents, including attention to mental-health needs.

Council members on the committee expressed strong support. Councilwoman Hannah said she has been involved with Harmony House since its start and backed expansion; Councilwoman O'Mobien urged recognition that local rules are subject to state law. The committee did not vote during the afternoon session and said it would repeat the hearing and potentially vote at 5 p.m.