FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) — No more than six sex offenders can live in one home now that county supervisors unanimously approved a new ordinance.
The topic has caused significant tension in recent months, especially in the Old Fig Garden and surrounding neighborhoods.
The controversy surrounded the transitional housing nonprofit organization, Centers for Living.
It has several homes in Fresno neighborhoods, and some of the people they serve are registered sex offenders.
This raised concerns among several people in the affected neighborhoods, especially those with children.
There was extensive discussion before the ordinance was passed today, with some in support and others opposed.
“Giving us literally 30 days with an ordinance like this, it’s going to buckle us. It’ll cost us to displace 30 of our 120 clients,” said Centers of Living co-founder Dawn Coyle.
But one mother for the ordinance shared her discomfort and fear, living next to a home that she says houses multiple offenders, including a convicted child molester.
“I have a 4-year-old and a 6-year-old, can’t even get my kids buckled into the car in the driveway or help me set up Christmas decor, because they are loitering in the yard, starting us down,” said Nicole Berger. “I didn’t sign up for this, I don’t rent, I own.”
Supervisors Gary Bredefeld and Brian Pacheco originally announced the measure last month.
Once it takes effect, any violation will suffer a $10,000 fine.
Continued violations could result in fines ranging from $20,000 to $50,000.
Copyright © 2026 KFSN-TV. All Rights Reserved.