Our neighborhood has always been a place where families flourish, where children play freely, and the community thrives on mutual trust and safety. In the last few years, this sense of security has been compromised by the establishment of a sex offender/sober house in the heart of our community.

While we understand the need for rehabilitation and reintegration of individuals, we cannot ignore the potential risk and unease this brings to our daily lives. This facility is located alarmingly close to school bus stops, parks, and homes where children and families should feel safe.  For several years, this property has been operated as a "sober house," a term that seems quite misplaced given that the residents appear to engage in more drinking and drug use than a touring hard rock band. There seems to be no person of authority managing these individuals, and while some residents seem okay, most are problematic and far from sober. The presence of individuals with criminal records for sexual offenses an other crimes is deeply concerning to all of us who call this neighborhood home. 

Statistics have shown that proximity of such facilities to residential areas can potentially lead to an increase in community anxiety and even affect property values adversely. According to a study by the Journal of Urban Economics, property values can decrease by as much as 12% when such facilities are located nearby, reflecting the broader community's concerns.

Violence is another significant issue. Over the past few years, physical altercations have occurred between residents and people coming to 428 Revilo Drive looking for someone. There have been incidents involving guns, fights, and highly elevated verbal arguments using language that no one should have to hear. The police have been called to this location dozens of times, the individuals get arrested and are back at the house the next day. There have been at least six deaths due to overdose, violence, or other causes. Recently, we learned that a sex offender is living there, and this person sexually assaulted a 17-year-old girl. 

We are not asking for these individuals to be deprived of their rights or support. Instead, we are advocating for the relocation of such facilities to areas where they do not pose a direct threat to children and family environments. Ideally, these houses should be situated in less residential areas, where professional oversight can ensure both community safety and support for the residents.

The residents would like to see this property in the hands of a nice, normal family—people who contribute to society and care for the neighborhood. We pay a lot of money for our homes and to maintain our property. We cherish our backyards as sanctuaries, now completely ruined by one blighted property. We deserve and have earned better.

We call on local authorities to take immediate action in relocating this facility. Community safety should never be compromised. By signing this petition, you are supporting a safer neighborhood for our families and future generations. Let's strive for a solution that respects both the need for rehabilitation and the safety of our community. Please sign and make your voice heard.