We, the undersigned residents and property owners of New Harmony and the surrounding New Harmony Valley, respectfully petition to deny any Conditional Use Permit, expansion, or continued authorization for The Bridge Health Recovery Center ( also known as The Bridge Recovery Center) at it's locations at and connected to 301 Rachel Ln New Harmony, UT 84757.

Reasons for Opposition:
1. Conflict with New Harmony’s Master Plan, General Plan, and New Harmony Overlay Zone
The Town’s Master Plan and the New Harmony Overlay Zone (adopted to protect the valley’s rural character, open space, low-density development, agricultural uses, and quality of life) emphasize preserving the peaceful, residential, and rural nature of the community. A commercial-scale wellness/treatment facility with overnight guests, staff, and daily operations is not in harmony with these goals and the intent of the zoning district. (See New Harmony Land Use Ordinance and Overlay Zone documents.)
2. Serious State Licensing Violation and Safety Concerns
On January 18, 2025, a client died while receiving services at the facility. The provider was found out of compliance with Utah rule R380-80-4(7) for failing to immediately notify the Office of Licensing. The Utah Division of Licensing and Background Checks issued a citation, marked the violation as “High” severity, and issued a Civil Money Penalty Warning (Inspection dated 02/06/2025). This raises significant concerns about the facility’s ability to operate safely and responsibly in a rural area with limited emergency services.
3. Incompatibility with Day Treatment License and Overnight Operations
The facility operates under a Utah day treatment license, yet provides multi-day overnight stays as part of its 21-day immersive program. This model raises questions about whether it fully complies with appropriate licensing categories (e.g., residential treatment or social detoxification) required for overnight care, and whether it adequately protects public safety and welfare.
4. Potential Impacts on the Community
• Increased traffic on rural roads not designed for commercial volumes.
• Strain on emergency services, water, and infrastructure in a sensitive valley setting.
• Detriment to the health, safety, and general welfare of residents, contrary to requirements for CUP approval.
• Change to the quiet, rural character that defines New Harmony.

Request:
We ask that the Conditional Use Permit be denied. If any approval is considered, it should only occur after full public hearing, thorough review of compliance history, and only with conditions that strictly protect the community — though denial is the most appropriate action given the above concerns.