A group of residents in one Grass Valley neighborhood are not happy with the plan of a housing facility for low income, mentally ill, potentially homeless residents of Nevada County. During public comment at the Grass Valley City Council meeting several people spoke out against the purchase of a single family residence to be used by Nevada County Health and Development Corporation- through Nevada County Behavioral Health- to house four residents on a permanent basis. Resident Monica LeBlanc presented a petition signed by 47 neighbors expressing concerns. One neighbor purchased his home in the area between Highway 20 and Butler Street near Condon Park specifically because of the single family presence.

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It is a concern the introduction of subsidized housing will have a negative impact on property values.
Another concern of residents is potential safety issues with such a facility being in close proximity to young children and elderly neighbors.

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Nevada County Behavioral Health Director, Michael Haggerty tells KNCO’s Rita Stevens during her morning interview segment, there is a mis-perception of the purpose of the property.

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Heggarty explains that a similar residence is already operating successfully in Grass Valley.

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The City Council could not respond since the item was heard during public Comment, but Mayor Dan Miller, referred the citizens to work with Community Development Director Tom Last to possible agendize the issue at a future meeting. The Mayor also suggested the group purchasing the property hold community meetings to present information and clarify perceptions of the project.