The Kalamazoo Planning Commission approved a special use permit for student recovery housing in a former chapter house on October 1.
The permit changes the use of an existing building on Fraternity Village Drive to a transitional residence. Staff said no major exterior changes are planned. The program is connected to Western Michigan University’s Unified Clinics. Director Christopher Briggs told the commission it is housing for students who have struggled with substance use, not a rehab facility, and that its purpose is to help them stay in school.
During the public hearing, representatives of the university’s Interfraternity Council said they support the program’s purpose but questioned its location in a fraternity and sorority area. They said their views came from conversations with chapters, not a petition. Commissioners said no location is perfect and that their review was limited to the permit criteria in the zoning ordinance. They also noted that letters of support had been received.
