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Elkton board approves special exception for counseling center at 109 North Bridge Street
Summary
The Town of Elkton Board of Zoning Appeals unanimously approved a special exception allowing Russell Wellness and Recovery Center LLC to operate a counseling and recovery center at 109 North Bridge Street; board members noted the use is regulated by the Maryland Behavioral Health Administration and services will largely be community-based for Medicaid-eligible clients.
ELKTON, Md. — The Town of Elkton Board of Zoning Appeals on April 16 approved a special exception allowing Russell Wellness and Recovery Center LLC to operate a counseling and recovery center at 109 North Bridge Street.
At the hearing, Kathleen Phipps, who represented the applicant, said she and her partner plan a community-based center for children and adults. “I’d would like to open up a community-based center for children and adults,” Phipps said after being sworn in by the board’s legal counsel. Phipps said much of the program’s work would take place off-site in churches, schools and other community settings, and that on-site appointments would be limited.
A representative identified in the record as Mr. Ron described the center’s community focus and experience in local business and outreach. “We want to provide resources for families that are having trouble meeting the poverty line,” he said, adding that the program provides one-on-one counseling, case management and supports intended to help clients reintegrate and improve daily living. Mr. Ron said client services would be billed to Medicaid but that Medicaid payments would cover services rather than rent; rent will be paid as a business expense.
Board members asked for clarification about client origin and regulation. Phipps said clients previously served in Towson have moved into the area and would not be transported from outside. Mr. Ron said the program is regulated by the Maryland Behavioral Health Administration and by applicable state regulations.
The Planning Commission’s April 6 recommendation in favor of the special exception was read into the record by Mr. Chastain. Zoning Administrator Chip Bromwell told the board there is no numerical cap in the Town Center (TC) zone on the proposed use. Board member Dawn Schwartz noted several similar wellness and recovery operations have opened locally in recent months.
Motion and vote
Ms. Shirley Hicks moved to approve the special exception; Ms. Dawn Schwartz seconded. The remaining board members present voted aye and the motion passed unanimously, granting the special exception for 109 North Bridge Street.
Why it matters
The approval allows Russell Wellness and Recovery Center LLC to offer Medicaid-billed counseling and case-management services from a Town Center address while largely delivering services in community locations. The decision affects local access to behavioral health services for Medicaid-eligible residents and signals the board’s willingness to permit community-based mental health services in the TC zone.
What’s next
Board staff recorded no new cases for the next month. The board set its next meeting for June 18, 2026, and adjourned following the vote.
