Hearing on Recovery Center Plan

Plans to convert the historic Hotel California apartment building into a residential center for people recovering from drug and alcohol addiction will get a final hearing Tuesday before the City Council.

Geared to those who need extended care following a hospital stay, the business would provide therapy and temporary housing for as many as 28 people at a time. It is being opposed by some residents who say a rehabilitation center could decrease property values and increase crime in their neighborhood.

Resident Christopher C. Spencer, who also owns Spencer Recovery Centers Inc. in Monrovia, said he would like to launch the recovery program in Laguna Beach by summer.

“Hospitals are too expensive for people to go into [for] treatment,” Spencer said Friday. “We need more programs that are affordable.”

Residents would pay for rent and therapy sessions, and would stay 30 to 90 days. Some would be allowed to stay for as long as a year. A manager would live in the building.

Spencer bought the 10,000-square-foot Art Deco-style building at 1316 S. Coast Highway in November and said he has spent about $175,000 so far to furnish and refurbish it.

The council will meet at 6 p.m. in chambers at City Hall, 505 Forest Ave. Information: (714) 497-0705.