Central OC Times

Assemblymember Diane Dixon has expressed approval following a decision by the US Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit regarding zoning regulations for residential drug and alcohol recovery treatment facilities. The court ruled in favor of the City of Costa Mesa, allowing it to deny a conditional-use permit to Ohio House LLC, which sought to operate such a facility in an area not designated for these services.

Dixon stated, "I am delighted with the decision by the US Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit. The Court upheld one of the most important tenets of our community: local control."

The ruling emphasized that Ohio House LLC did not succeed in demonstrating that Costa Mesa's zoning code was discriminatory. Dixon further commented on the importance of allowing cities to determine what is best for their communities while ensuring safety and support for individuals seeking treatment. "While we want people to receive the treatment they need to get better, it is imperative that we allow cities to do what is best for their communities. We must ensure patients and residents are in a safe environment where people that need help can get well," she added.

The full opinion from the court can be accessed online.