This human service program housing project in Folsom is the same model that Sacramento is planning to use for its chronic homeless housing and will generate the same type of problems. The preferred approach, though more difficult for program operators but much better for the surrounding community, is scattered site locations where single apartments or homes are rented or bought and then used for human service program housing.
An excerpt.
Housing project raises questions
Low-income complex targets mentally ill
By: Gloria Beverage Tuesday, October 10, 2006 5:29 PM PDT
Plans for a 19-unit apartment complex for people with mental illnesses have some residents up in arms. Neighbors are raising questions about the suitability of the site, 1-1/2 acres at the edge of Folsom's historic district.
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Their opposition is based on concerns about an increased possibility of crime, drug use, the safety of neighbors, particularly children, as well as its affect on property values.
Mercy Housing of California recently submitted plans to build an apartment complex at 809 Bidwell Street. Once built, the complex will be owned and operated by Transitional Living and Community Support, a private, non-profit social rehabilitation agency serving Sacramento County. The agency provides housing, living skills training, community support services, entitlement advocacy and outreach services for adults with psychiatric disabilities.
"This is housing for people with disabilities who are ready for independent living," explained Jane Ginsberg, executive director of Transitional Living and Community Support, Inc.
"We want to be able to provide affordable housing for individuals who also have kids. It is near to schools and childcare because some of our residents will need access to these.
"The complex will consist of four buildings. The two-story buildings will contain eight one-bedroom apartments and seven two-bedroom apartments, one of which will be for the resident manager. The four three-bedroom units will be located in two single story duplex units, Ginsberg said. An office and community room as well as a tot lot playground area and 30 parking spaces are also planned.
"We've just started going through the planning process," Ginsberg said. "The Planning Department is looking at our building plans and suggesting modifications.
"The oak trees on the site will be protected, she added.
Residents will have case managers and will be required to participate in mandatory programs. She believes many of them will be more willing to work on their recovery if they have their children with them.
"Our hope is that we can work with some of the neighbors and calm down some of their concerns," she said. "It's just as important to us that it remains a safe neighborhood."
Heather Tanfani, who owns a business in the historic district, questions why the city does not require a conditional use permit for psychiatric facilities in residential areas.
As a result, Tanfani said, "there are no notification requirements and a very limited public process. This is a special case. There are going to be special circumstances for this project."
