Margate residents may see certified recovery residences in their communities.
During the May 6 meeting, the commission approved an ordinance to amend the land development code to include the definition of a certified recovery residence. This ordinance enables certified recovery residences to be reviewed and approved for operation within local neighborhoods, ensuring compliance with state law and outlining the city’s responsibilities for accommodating such facilities.
A recovery residence is a residential dwelling unit, the housing component of a licensed day or night treatment facility with community housing, or group housing that is offered or advertised by an individual or entity as a residence that provides a peer-supported, alcohol-free, and drug-free living environment, according to city information.
During the meeting, City Attorney David Tolces said that under federal and state law, the city must make accommodations for certified residential homes that care for individuals in recovery. They are considered people with disabilities, and accommodation must be made for them, according to Tolces.
Commissioner Tommy Ruzzano said he did not believe recovery homes should be in residential neighborhoods, but understood the city had to allow them.
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