Panel OKs Home for Disabled Adults

Despite a written protest from neighbors, the Glendale Housing Authority has approved an environmental review that will allow the opening of a six-bed home for low-income disabled adults.

The panel, which consists of the five City Council members and two appointees, voted 5 to 0 Tuesday that a supervised home for the disabled at 1123 Alma St. will have no adverse environmental impact. One member was absent and one vacancy exists on the panel.

“I’m totally relieved, and I’m glad it’s over,” said Carole Jouroyan, executive director of the Glendale Assn. for the Retarded, which will run the facility. The group home is expected to open in July.

Last November, the Housing Authority provided $450,000 for acquisition and renovation of the home, despite objections from neighbors. No one spoke against the project Tuesday, but a letter sent by eight neighbors claimed the group home will reduce nearby property values.

Jouroyan said research indicates that is not true. “It’s been shown that property values have increased because as the owner of a group home, there’s more pressure on me to maintain the property well,” she said.

She said there is a waiting list of mentally retarded adults seeking such housing. “These are probably the most ideal neighbors you can get,” Jouroyan said. “They don’t drink. They don’t smoke. They don’t drive. They don’t party. They don’t ride motorcycles or play loud music.”