In a recent city council meeting, officials discussed a proposed zoning change for a property located north of the intersection of Benson Memorial and East Pine in Jacksonville. The request, submitted by Troy Dorman, seeks to change the zoning from residential (1 and 2 family) to general commercial (G) with a special use permit (SUP) to establish a residential treatment facility for mental health and substance abuse.

The Planning and Zoning Commission reviewed the request on September 17 and unanimously recommended its denial. The property in question, identified as Lot 4B Block 4 Ellis Heights, spans 1.8 acres, which is below the minimum five-acre requirement for a residentially zoned property to qualify for an SUP. This limitation prompted the applicant to pursue the G commercial designation.

City officials outlined the zoning classifications and the implications of the proposed changes, emphasizing that any SUP granted would require a 4/5ths affirmative vote from the city council. They also noted that if the property were to change ownership or sustain significant damage, the SUP would be void and require reapplication.

The proposed facility would feature a hub-and-spoke design with 96 beds, primarily located on the west side of the property, accompanied by adequate parking to the east. The council opened the floor for public input on the zoning change, marking a critical step in the decision-making process regarding the future of the site and its potential use as a treatment facility.