Neighbors Speak Out Against Broadway Youth Center

Neighbors near the Wellington Avenue United Church of Christ (at 615 W. Wellington) are speaking out against the Broadway Youth Center moving into the location, according to an article by DNA Info.   

The Broadway Youth Center has been operating inside the Wellington Avenue United Church of Christ since June, but learned recently that they'll need a special-use permit to stay open. The South East Lake View Neighbors have previously said they would support the agency, as long as the neighborhood group could veto changes in operating hours. 

Over 50 residents attended a meeting held by the South East Lake View Neighbors earlier this week, with many speaking out against the agency moving into the church, DNA Info states. Many wanted to hold the Center accountable for clients' behavior after hours, while others noted that it wasn't fair to blame all the violence in the area on the center. 

Alderman Tom Tunney sent out a message to constituents Thurs. evening inviting them to share their thoughts on the Center receiving the permit with him, and to testify at the hearing or write to the Zoning Board of Appeals. 

"I have heard from many residents regarding either their support or opposition to the Broadway Youth Center being granted this special use permit," the e-mail from Tunney states. "I have read every letter and appreciate your comments." 

The Chicago Zoning Board of Appeals is set to meet on Fri. Oct. 18, although the Broadway Youth Center's permit has not yet been added to the official agenda. 

Read the full story at DNA Info here, and check out some of Patch's previous coverage of this issue here and here.