Relocating a drug and alcohol rehab facility from Owego to Vestal has some people up in arms.

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By WBNG News:

Story Created: Dec 23, 2008 at 5:57 PM EST
Story Updated: Dec 23, 2008 at 6:32 PM EST

They say the proposed site's proximity to two schools could create problems.

But as Action News Reporter Reed Buterbaugh tells us, the rehab center's current neighbors haven't had any troubles.

Candlehouse Teen Challenge is a faith-based rehab center for women.

Lisa Busby came here for help.

The recovering drug addict, says she owes everything to the facility.

"I'm loyal to this ministry. It means the world to me. I believe in it, it helped me," Lisa Busby, Candlehouse assistant director said. "It was the one thing that did help me."

But these cramped quarters in Owego has Candlehouse looking to relocate to Vestal.

If the rehab center takes over St. Andrew's Church, it would be within blocks of two schools.

"It's well needed and everything but it seems they could put one somewhere where it isn't such a closed district to the schools and children walking around here all the time," Barbara Votopka of Vestal said.

"There's a school, within 2 blocks of each of this installation and I'd prefer they look elsewhere," Carl Cruver of Vestal said.

Candlehouse has heard these type of objections before. People weren't too keen on a drug rehab center moving in next door in Owego. But according to the people we've talked to, they've been good neighbors.

"We've never had any trouble here and nobody else has that I know of," said Byron Worthing of Owego.

"We've had no problems with these women. These women are polite, they're friendly they don't come out, they aren't wandering around at night," said Bonnie Baker-Duff of Owego.

Candlehouse also has some supporters in Vestal.

"I'm familiar with a lot of the girls already in the candlehouse and they bring positive aspect to our church," said Lauree Daviau of Vestal. "They volunteer a lot of time here and I think it would be a good thing for the community."

Candlehouse has yet to purchase the St. Andrew's property.

They will hold another meeting in Vestal in January.

Candlehouse says the property in Vestal does not have to be rezoned, because it's protected under the Fair Housing Act for people emotionally distressed.

A Vestal Town Board member says the town lawyer is looking into whether the Town Board has a say in the matter.