Applicant wins planning commission recommendation for non‑medical mental health clinic at 133 N. Bridge St.

Siara Bazemore asked the Town of Elkton Planning Commission on Jan. 12 for a Special Exception to operate A Better Living Wellness Center, a community‑based, non‑medical behavioral health and wellness program, at 133 North Bridge Street, third floor.

Bazemore told commissioners the center will offer counseling, life‑skills development, peer services and education, and emphasized the practice will not provide, store, prescribe or distribute medications. "We do not provide, store, prescribe dose or distribute any medications or controlled substances," Bazemore said. She said hours would be 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., the typical on‑site staff would be four people, and most services would be individual appointments — she estimated about 20 clients would be served.

Bazemore said the program is intended to provide early intervention and on‑going supports that reduce crisis situations and ease pressure on emergency services. "We are designed to be a quiet, respectful and professionally operated program that integrates positively into this community," she said.

Commissioners asked about signage, parking and whether services would be offered online. Bazemore said the landlord had not approved exterior signage because the clinic space is located beneath a bank, and that she will provide services both in person and by Zoom. She said she has a dedicated parking space and may use a neighboring lot to support client transportation.

With no public comments for or against the request, Mr. Manuel moved that the commission forward a favorable recommendation to the Board of Zoning Appeals for the Special Exception; Mr. Jones seconded. The motion passed unanimously.

Next steps: the Board of Zoning Appeals will consider the Special Exception application; the commission's recommendation is advisory.