NORTHGLENN, Colo. — The City of Northglenn and the state have reached a compromise regarding a proposed state mental health transitional facility. The agreement marks a resolution to concerns raised by Northglenn officials and residents over the facility's location and operation.
"The state purchased property in our city, but did not communicate with us their intention," said Mayor Meredith Leighty.
Leighty said the city became aware of the project in January when Northglenn Police received communication from the Colorado Department of Human Services (CDHS).
The facility is part of a larger initiative stemming from a 2022 bill aimed at increasing available beds for individuals with mental health conditions and substance abuse disorders.
The community's apprehensions particularly regarded the potential inclusion of sex offenders. However, CDHS clarified that such individuals would only be considered after the conclusion of a two-year pilot program, a prospect the community still vehemently opposed, because of the location.
Leighty underscored the community's concerns about the facility's proximity to places frequented by children, including churches and schools.
Following discussions at a recent city council meeting, Northglenn announced a successful negotiation with the state on Friday. The agreement entails commitments from the state, including refraining from housing sex offenders at the facility, maintaining a 1,000-foot distance from schools, and implementing measures such as removing porch lattice and building a taller fence in collaboration with neighbors.
Leighty emphasized that the community's endurance and advocacy played a pivotal role in reaching a favorable resolution. She dispelled notions of NIMBYism, noting that the city's concerns were rooted in genuine worries about community safety.
"The state... really did reflect on some of their missteps, and they heard what the residents were concerned about,” Leighty said, adding that she appreciated the state's willingness to compromise.
Looking ahead, Leighty expressed hope that this compromise could serve as a model for future collaborations between cities and the state on similar projects. She recognized the inevitability of such facilities being established in the future and stressed the importance of proactive and transparent communication between stakeholders.
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