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Commission approves special‑use permit for 16‑bed assisted living facility on East Mesquite Drive
Summary
A special‑use permit to allow an assisted living facility at 1901 East Mesquite Drive was approved on first reading; the operator said the facility will be licensed as a small Type B residential assisted living facility and staffed by an established local home‑care company.
The Harlingen City Commission approved a special‑use permit on first reading to allow an assisted living facility at 1901 East Mesquite Drive (Lot 20, Block 2, Parkwood Subdivision). Veronica Gutierrez is the applicant; Micah Gibbs, a registered nurse and owner of Comfort Care Home Care, told the commission the company will operate the facility and that a Type B license (up to 16 beds) is pending with Texas Health and Human Services.
Gibbs described the facility as intended to provide an affordable alternative for people who no longer can receive 24‑hour home care at home but do not require a nursing home. He said Comfort Care already provides home‑care services locally and contracts with the VA. Staff confirmed the property will be remodeled to meet ADA and life‑safety requirements and that state licensing and a local fire/inspection sign‑off will be required before opening.
Commissioners asked about staffing and acuity. Gibbs said state ratios require one caregiver per six residents and that on‑site administration will be in place; higher‑acuity dementia care plans would be considered in future projects with additional renovation. With no public opposition signed up for this hearing, commissioners approved the special‑use permit on first reading by voice vote.
The operator will complete state licensing and local building/fire inspections before accepting residents. City staff will monitor required permits and the applicant confirmed contracts and staffing arrangements will be in place before occupancy.
