To whom it may concern, 

I am Brian Cellary, a Managing Partner at Clarity Sober Living situated at 80 Knickerbocker Rd, Closter. We find ourselves amidst an ongoing zoning issue in Closter, and this coming Monday, November 13th, we will seek approval for a use variance for our sober living community. We hold a New Jersey Class F certification, authorizing us to accommodate up to 10 residents in a single-family dwelling. While state regulations permit our operation, local zoning laws currently do not. 

Allow me to share a bit about myself. Raised in Allendale and a Northern Highlands High School alumni, I called Bergen County home until my early twenties. My battle with addiction began with painkillers prescribed for sports injuries and, unfortunately, spiraled out of control. After three rehab attempts, I achieved sobriety at 22. I wanted to come home however there were no Sober Livings in Bergen County at the time. Now, with 13 years of recovery, I've dedicated myself to aiding others in the community that shaped me. Clarity Sober living provides a much needed service to those struggling in OUR community.

Clarity Sober Living is not merely housing; it's a nurturing and structured sanctuary for those who've endured immense suffering due to addiction. Our residents come from various local towns including the Northern Valley. They are professionals, young adults, and retirees alike, all finding solace and camaraderie in shared experiences and goals towards achieving a lifetime of sobriety. 

Our facility operates under stringent protocols: 

• 24/7 supervision by skilled peer support staff member 
• Mandatory weekly drug screenings to maintain a substance-free environment
• A strict ZERO TOLERANCE policy on substance use, violence, and other infractions 
• Limited visitation to ONLY immediate family on designated days (Weekends) 
• Residents are required to attend daily 12 step recovery meetings, weekly house meetings, aftercare treatment programming, obtain a sponsor, and seek employment/school/non profit work. 

We acknowledge the concerns of our neighbors and understand that municipal codes and state regulations can be at odds. The necessity of our facility is undeniable when addiction touches your own family. We trust the board will recognize our positive impact on the community. Moreover, we propose a town hall meeting to foster open dialogue. There, neighbors can meet our team and residents and gain insight into the remarkable recovery journeys underway.

The struggle for recognition and support for sober living homes in New Jersey spans over a decade. Today, we seek not just your approval but your partnership in fostering compassionate and supportive care for those affected in our community.