Board approves transitional housing conditional use with limits after neighbors raise safety and access concerns

The Board considered a conditional‑use application from BR Adkins LDT, represented by agent Lakeshia (spelled in transcript as Lakeshia/Lakeisha) Alexander, to use an existing R‑1 residence at 2351 S. Medway‑New Carlisle Road as transitional housing for women aged roughly 18–21 exiting foster care.

Alexander described outreach and program components including background checks, life‑skills classes, transportation support, and partnerships with the Bridges program and a licensed therapist on staff. She said the house would focus on housing and life‑skills rather than onsite clinical care and that she provided a notarized statement contending licensure was not required. As Alexander stated, the residents "would not have criminal backgrounds, and that the home would be for housing and life skills so that the occupants would not be subject to homelessness." Neighbors raised concerns about rural location, lack of sidewalks and proximity to a 55‑mph road, visitor protocols, and whether supervision would be adequate; one neighbor also asked for occupancy limits and an inspection regime.

Board members debated the tension between the demonstrated need for transitional programs and the practical challenges of the site. Some members favored tabling pending state legislation (discussed in testimony), but the board ultimately approved the conditional use, 3–2, with conditions: no more than six occupants, a fence around the property, and a maximum of four cars parked in the driveway at one time. Motion: Mr. Duffee; second: Ms. Parcels. Vote: Yes — Mr. Duffee, Ms. Parcels, Mr. Hazlett; No — Mr. Frank, Mr. Shaw. Outcome: approved with conditions.