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I think it's a bad idea to block such a venture. If I'm not mistaken, the majority of federal prisoners that hit these half way houses are white collar criminals, not violent offenders.

I wonder how those in opposition would feel if the state wanted to put in a group home for developmentally disabled adults?

You are mistaken MyTwoCents. Federal offenders, coming back to this area, will not be white collar criminals. They will be your big time drug dealers, drug distributors and drug users. These will not be your Enron, Martha Stewart types. Sorry, it'll be your drug cartel and gang members who have been arrested and convicted from throughout the United States. Incidentally, 90% of federal offenders either have a serious state conviction record before entering federal prisons, or they get one once they get out "on work release to a half way house." Way to go zoning commission! Good decision.

Even if that were to be the case; did they not do their time? Do they not deserve some benefit of the doubt once they complete their sentences? Where should half way houses be permitted?

I can understand "Get the Facts'" concern with drug dealers, gang leaders, etc. coming into a community even if I don't personally believe they should be excluded. I very strongly disagree, however, with excluding drug users from neighborhoods. If halfway houses are only built in areas where recovering drug users are constantly surrounded by temptation and the same depressing environment that led them into their substance issues, how can they ever begin to recover? It seems to me that elevating their quality of life by putting them in a successful neighborhood would reduce their risk of returning to drugs. I know that other programs such as job training and placement would have to be involved, but it seems like removing the constant accessibility of drugs may be an excellent first step to rehabilitation. Furthermore, why should the released criminal populations be the burden of only the poor community? Are richer communities not better equipped to handle criminals (especially those under incredibly strict regulation during their stay at a halfway house)? Do you have any facts on whether or not this argument has been proven or proven false? I'd really like to see them if you have a chance to post them. Thank You.