9.1 PURPOSE

To allow for the continuation of low-density residential neighborhoods and to not encourage an over-concentration of congregate living facilities that tends to create an “institutional” rather than a “residential” atmosphere in the applicable neighborhoods, this chapter will: A. Distinguish between facilities providing residential services to people with disabilities or to the elderly, and other congregate living facilities, such as youth homes; B. Avoid the institutionalization of residential neighborhoods and create an environment that will facilitate the “mainstreaming” of persons with disabilities and/or elderly persons into a “normalized” residential environment; C. Provide an opportunity for congregate living facilities to be located within the City; D. Establish zoning uses, standards, and practices which will not have the effect of discriminating against congregate living arrangements of unrelated people with disabilities or the elderly; E. Enact a separation requirement of at least one-half mile that is necessary to provide the adequate mixture of residential housing types to meet the needs of maintaining a “normalized” residential environment, while still providing adequate alternatives for the establishment of such housing throughout the community. F. In Fountain Green City in 2010, there were 358 homes and approximately 1,000 residents giving an average residential density of less than 3.3 people per home. By allowing 8 residents in each residential facility for the elderly and 8 residents in each residential facility for people with disabilities, the city is able to provide essential services such as water and sewer and police protection without compromising those same services for all city residents. The city allows 6 residents in each youth home. Police protection is limited to one full-time employee and county sheriff assistance in emergencies.