OGDENSBURG, New York (WWNY) – A proposed mental health treatment facility that would bring 45 jobs to Ogdensburg could be blocked by a city moratorium on new multi-dwelling units.
Step By Step, which operates supportive housing and other services on Knox Street, plans to purchase and level a corner of the former Ogdensburg Mall. Two new buildings would house short and longer-term treatment for those diagnosed with a mental health illness.
“They would help individuals with med management, daily living skills, we would have nurses, social workers, case managers,” said David Bayne, executive director of Step By Step.
The facility would employ about 45 people. Bayne said it would not be directed at people who are homeless or on the street.
Bayne said he has secured nearly $13 million from the state to pay for the project. He said the site is ideal because it has bus service and is adjacent to other human service agencies. The site plan awaits approval by city hall.
Proposed moratorium raises concerns
The plan may face an obstacle from a moratorium the city now proposes on new multi-dwelling units. Bayne said he believes the moratorium is directed at him.
“I think the city is questioning if this is a project that they would like,” Bayne said. “If you look at any other programs or projects that are on the table, there doesn’t seem to be many. It seems like the only projects right now that this is affecting are ours.”
Bayne said the moratorium might also stop Step By Step’s new supportive housing on Knox Street from opening this fall. That project is funded by $10 million from the state.
The mayor and city manager were not available for comment.
City Councilor Jennifer Stevenson said she is not sure the moratorium targets Step By Step, but she said she believes it would stifle business and development.
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