A duplex in southwest Derby is set to find new life as an adult care center – or HomePlus facility – thanks to action taken by the Planning Commission during its April 3 meeting.
The property, located at 301 E. Market (the southeast corner of Market and Derby Avenue), was originally developed as a duplex in 2005 – being rezoned to an R-2 two-family residential district at that time. However, adult care centers are not permitted in such districts, requiring a special use.
Rohan Properties LLC is the applicant for the project, with realtor Tim Harder noting the duplex layout made the transition a natural pivot for the property and the senior care situation also played into the pursuit of this special use.
“It seemed like there was a need everywhere and this house was kind of already set up well for it,” Harder said. “It just kind of made sense.”
With zero entry and wide doorways, renovations have already begun with the HomePlus facility looking to take on residents by summer.
Per regulations of the Kansas Department of Aging and Disability Services (KDADS), HomePlus facilities – a living option for adults needing extra help – are capped at a maximum of 12 residents given their more intimate nature. The facility on Market is set up to take on no more than eight residents per unit, with each serving as a separate HomePlus facility.
Renovations have already begun to convert the garages into living areas and while Rohan Properties is managing the building portion, a separate entity will be brought in to handle resident care.
“Classified nursing staff will be present 24/7,” said Everett Haynes, assistant city planner.
One condition of the special use being granted is for the property to maintain the residential feel of the neighborhood, which staff noted the applicant has done.
Presenting the findings of fact, staff noted minimal issues and pointed out that the special use helps carry out the city’s comprehensive plan – especially relating to the senior population.
“This request helps fulfill the goals of the comprehensive plan by providing critical assisted living housing in Derby, which allows community members to stay in Derby,” Haynes said.
Additionally, staff noted no opposition was heard as part of the findings of fact – but a neighboring property owner did show interest in doing something similar at one of their properties.
Harder noted Rohan Properties is also potentially open to more development given feedback from city staff.
“We’ve only heard positive things, so it seems like a good alternative to like a nursing home,” Harder said. “The city has shown some positive interest, so I think if it goes well we’d be open to others.”
Commissioners mainly wanted to clarify the duration the special use would be in place, with staff stating it is intended to be permanent. The permanent special use for the adult care center was then approved on a 9-0 vote.
