Mayor breaks tie, denies home for addicts

The opening of a home in Bonners Ferry for up to eight women recovering from alcohol and drug abuse has been denied.

City council on Tuesday deadlocked 2-2 on the issue, and Mayor Dave Anderson broke the tie by voting against it.

“I grew up in an alcoholic family and I am very aware of the need and importance of such endeavors,” said Anderson. “On the other hand, the vast majority of the people asked to respond in a timely manner, returned in a negative manner. So, I would have to support Mr. Sims and deny the request.”

Councilmen David Sims, who made the motion to deny the operation from a six-bedroom home at 6472 Polk St., and Dave Gray voted against the home while Connie Wells and John Langs voted in favor.

Sheepgate Services was required to have the hearing since the proposed operation lies is in a residential area. The city's zoning, however, allows for exceptions to the rule, including this type of facility in a residential area.

Trilby Hoover, owner of Sheepgate Services, said the women who would stay at the home will likely be between 18 and 23 years old. They can expect to be there for about 90 days.

There will be no treatment or programming. It's a place for women, who have been through treatment, can practice sober-living skills.

Dan Moore, a local apartment complex owner, spoke in favor of the home.

“These guys are neighbors of mine. I have had a chance to know them and they are very ethicnical and serious about what they are doing,” said Moore. “My buildings are in the area, and I have no control over alcohol or drug dectection and my facility is more than a risk than something that is closely monitored. I don't think this as big of deal as everyone is making it out to be.”

Karl Heiss spoke against the home.

“We have worked hard with police to keep a drug-free place,” Heiss said. “This type of group home need not to be in this type of area. The recovering addicts will be living there for 90 days, not long enough to start caring about this area. They will be living in a domestic area, but they are incorporated in a for-profit business. Doesn't make sense that a business would act in any other manner.”

Heiss said he also sees several more red flags.

The group will now have to find a different location for its home.