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MINUTES OF THE ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING Monday, February 22, 2010 7:00 o’clock p.m. _________________________________________________________________________________________ Page 8 of 19 (4. #10-3442 THE EMILY PROGRAM, 2180 NORTH SHORE DRIVE, Continued) rehab facility for the mentally ill. Printup stated the residents do not pay premium taxes to live in the beauty and somewhat rural charm of Orono to have that as a neighbor. Printup noted that a police call to that facility will cost the community and taxpayers. If the neighbors notice a high volume of traffic, there is nothing they can do about it. The permit stays with the property. When someone gets hurt or is running down the street trying to run away or is found in the park having made a poor choice, there is nothing the neighbors can do to make the program leave. There is a very likely possibility, if the eating disorder aspect does not work out, and because that disorder is a mental illness, that then paves the way for other mental health patients to move in, which is state law. Many times people with mental health issues are also cigarette smokers. Printup indicated he does not want his child to be around or see people who smoke. Printup asked if anyone on the Council has any interest or background in this program. Every council member he has spoken to by phone has stated the same two reasons for why they support the program. The reasons given were that building vacancy is bad and helping people is good. It was also quoted in the newspaper about what‟s not to like about this program. Printup stated when he asked the mayor this question, he was given two reasons: building vacancy is bad and helping people is good. Printup comments that that seems to be a common theme or line to support it. Printup stated he has heard more valid public safety reasons not to support it and that he would like to keep Orono rural in character. Printup requested the City Council delay any approval vote tonight or in the very near future because a lot more thought and consideration needs to go into this application. Printup requested the City Council not take the approach of “I know what‟s best for you,” because we live here, we know best, and those are the two reasons why you should oppose this program from operating in Orono. Steve Byrnes, 1025 Heritage Lane, noted that he does have a connection to the Emily Program. Byrnes stated he has never met Dr. Miller, but he would like to say thank you to him for saving his sister‟s life, who suffered from an eating disorder. Byrnes commented that it is time some of the residents speak in favor and support of The Emily Program. Byrnes indicated he has been a resident of Orono his entire adult life and that he is surprised at the reaction of some of his neighbors. The residents here live in a wonderful city, with a number of resources. This is an opportunity to help others. Byrnes stated simply because you suffer from an eating disorder does not mean that you are mentally ill. The people who seek help for an eating disorder is because they want help and not because they are court ordered. Byrnes noted he does have some concerns as well. He has two small boys who like to play in the park, walk to the post office, and run on the trail. Byrnes stated the provisions he has heard from Dr. Miller and the fact that they are willing to surrender the CUP is good enough for him and that this is a wonderful opportunity to help our neighbors and other people out. Mike Maddie, 2150 Prospect Avenue, stated following the first City Council meeting, he wanted to learn some more facts about The Emily Program. He did make a visit to one of the facilities because he had some concerns due to his lack of knowledge about the program. One of the major concerns is what due diligence has been done by the City and Staff as it relates to this application and the fact that all of the information on the program has come from the applicant. Item #02 - CC Agenda - 03/08/2010 Approval of Council Minutes 02/22/2010 [Page 8 of 19]