By allowing ads to appear on this site, you support the local businesses who, in turn, support great journalism.
Housing plan for women escaping sex trafficking gets OK
Board of Commissioners caps number of residents at 20
0127STRAIGHT 0007
Commissioner Billy Powell speaks with other commissioners about conditions for Straight Street Ministries' housing development during the Hall County Board of Commissioners meeting at the Hall County Government Center. While the proposal had many conditions, the Board of Commissioners voted to approve the development. - photo by Erin O. Smith
A faith-based program housing and counseling women who have escaped sex trafficking received unanimous approval from the Hall County Board of Commissioners on Thursday night to locate in a residential area off Weaver Road. But the OK came only after officials agreed to reduce the number of residences to five, each housing just four women, from an initial proposal of 17 while also adding buffer and security requirements to protect adjacent neighborhoods. Commissioners repeatedly expressed support for Gainesville-based Straight Street Revolution Ministries but sought to alleviate safety concerns brought forth by dozens of residents in the area.