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The amendment passed and our community now has the framework to finally support those on the path to recovery. Seeing this come to fruition brings me such peace after watching so many struggle in silence. Thank you for trusting that this mattered even when the path forward seemed uncertain.

July 27, 2021

Pass the Zoning Text Amendment

Pass the Zoning Text Amendment

🏆 Won — 175 supporters Verified

Final supporters

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Someone
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Robert K.
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Mary v.
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Crystal K.
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Amy C.
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Rachel N.
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Nathaniel V.
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Bobbie V.
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Dana K.
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Cara B.
+165 more
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Started by Waterloo Listens 5 years, 3 months ago

Dear City of Waterloo Aldermen,

As citizens of Waterloo, Illinois, we support the passage of the Zoning Text Amendment below, and its addition as a Special Use in B2 zoning within the city limits of Waterloo.

We understand that this Zoning Text Amendment is not tied to any specific property in the city of Waterloo. Both the Planning Commission and the Zoning Board of Appeals will have oversight and public meetings regarding any request for a Special Use Permit for a “Recovery Residence” in the future. We also understand that the approval of any Special Use in the future is a decision of the Zoning Board of Appeals.

As Waterloo neighbors, we have been diligent in our attempt to understand the issue at hand in its entirety. We are excited to support the addition of this language as part of the permitted special uses in Waterloo. Our community has a need, and you have an opportunity to support the hard work of the Planning Commission and all those involved. This definition is thoughtful, stringent and goes above and beyond the text used by most cities and counties.

Text as approved by the Planning Commission

At the May 19, 2021 Planning Commission meeting, board members voted 6-0 on petition # Z-21-05-01.

The approved "Recovery Residence” definition:

Recovery Residence: A non-profit facility that offers a sober, safe, and healthy living environment that promotes recovery from alcohol and other drug use associated problems. Clients must be voluntary (not required as a part of a prison sentence) and only permitted to leave the residence under direct supervision of employees. The facility must have employees on premises 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The minimum planned program stay shall be 60 days, and the maximum planned program stay shall be 90 days. Locations shall not exceed 24 residents at any given time. Visitors shall be limited to one visit per resident per week to minimize traffic effects on the area. The residence shall also meet the standards set for by the NARR and be certified by the IAEC within 12 months.

Updates

June 2, 2021

Seeing this kind of outpouring proves that our town understands how vital these safe spaces are for our neighbors in recovery. It feels like the tide is finally turning toward a more compassionate future for Waterloo.

Reached 100 supporters

June 2, 2021

35 Comments

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Dana Kiphart
5 years ago Featured

I fully support this in Waterloo! I’m a business owner and resident of Waterloo.

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Sarah Mercurio
5 years ago Featured

As a resident of Monroe County for the last 7 1/2 years it has become apparent there is a tremendous need for for mental health, substance-abuse, and alcohol abuse reform in this county. The sheriffs are even quoted mentioning how a good majority of their calls result from some link to drugs and alcohol. Please bring awareness to your community and help Waterloo stay the thriving city it is with help for all of the area women!

J
Jacqlyn Laumbattus
5 years ago Featured

I really think that to whom this may concern you should really think about it this was your family member looking to transition back into the world after drug abuse or whatever the case might be .

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Lisa Schmalenberger
5 years ago Featured

Addiction is an illness. I believe we all know someone suffering from it. Recovery and support are vital in order to help an individual get clean and sober. I strongly support the passing of the zoning text amendment.

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Bailey Langhorst
5 years ago Featured

I am a recovering addict from Monroe county who wishes this would have been available to me when I was looking for help! This will be a great thing for the county and for the people!! Addiction is taking over and it’s time we do something about it!!!

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Mary Branson
5 years ago Featured

Rehab facilities are safe and have strict rules to keep their clients and communities safe. It could help so many.

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Joy Wellman
5 years ago

Joy Wellman 8608 Henke Court Waterloo, IL

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Rachel Newport
5 years ago

Waterloo resident!