Full Breakdown
Lexington Board Approves Controversial Mental Health Clinic in Chevy Chase
4/15/2026, 12:43:20 PM
Approval Amidst Public Outcry
The Lexington Board of Adjustment voted 4-2 on April 13, 2026, to approve a permit for an in-patient mental health and substance abuse clinic proposed by Roaring Brook Recovery and ZLD Partners. The facility will be located at 319 Duke Road, a site previously used for senior assisted living. Despite the board's decision, the approval was met with significant opposition from local residents, many of whom expressed concerns about safety and property values during a nearly six-hour meeting.
Community Concerns and Opposition
Residents voiced strong objections, particularly regarding the clinic's proximity to three schools: Christ the King School, Cassidy Elementary, and Morton Middle School. Ann Bruggeman, principal of Christ the King, articulated fears about potential dangers posed by patients, stating, “I’m worried about the one who has a bad day.” Critics also highlighted a website, "Chevy Chase Deserves Better," which outlined worries about crime and the appropriateness of placing a treatment facility in a family-oriented neighborhood.
Opponents, including local attorney Jessica Winters, argued that Lexington already has sufficient mental health facilities, citing at least 47 existing treatment centers. Winters claimed that Roaring Brook had not demonstrated an unmet need for additional services. Some residents suggested that a commercial or industrial area would be more suitable for such a facility.
Support for the Clinic
Conversely, supporters of the clinic emphasized the necessity of local mental health resources. Chad Sirk, a former patient of Roaring Brook, argued that the facility saved his life and countered claims about negative impacts on property values, stating, “I found no correlating evidence that will substantiate that proximate properties are negatively impacted by being next to these healthcare facilities.” Kian Johnson, a local resident with a history of eating disorders, expressed hope that the clinic would provide essential care that is currently unavailable in Kentucky.
Official Statements and Responses
Roaring Brook representatives clarified that the facility would focus primarily on mental health treatment, with a portion of beds reserved for patients with eating disorders. They assured the community that patients would be screened to ensure safety and would not be allowed to leave the property unsupervised. Bruce Simpson, an attorney for Roaring Brook, noted that the opposition often stemmed from fear and intolerance, stating, “The people that need these services... aren’t coming (to city hall).”
Conflicting Reports and Gaps
While Roaring Brook maintains that the facility will not serve as a drug treatment clinic, some residents remain skeptical, citing concerns about the potential for increased crime in the area. The debate continues as residents promise to pursue further action against the clinic's establishment.
Verbatim Quotes
- “This is a tinder box of massive problems that can happen.” — Shawn Milburn, Opponent
- “I may one day die from this disorder. Saying yes to this will provide access to the treatment that can save my life and the lives of so many of these people who just want to find healing.” — Kian Johnson, Supporter
- “You’re accountable for our children,” — Anonymous Opponent
- “If you put me into a place that is more industrial, I am going to feel like a caged animal,” — Keith Rapp, Roaring Brook Employee
The approval of the Roaring Brook clinic marks a significant moment in Lexington's approach to mental health treatment, highlighting the ongoing tension between community concerns and the need for accessible mental health resources.
