ARCOLA, Texas – A proposed plan to turn a home in Arcola into a youth treatment center is raising concerns among some neighbors who worry about property values and safety, while city leaders say their authority to block the project is limited under state and federal law.
The home on Pinedale is at the center of discussions about whether it will become a state-regulated treatment facility for children ages 8 to 15.
Residents who live nearby say they want clarity about what operations would look like and how the facility would impact the neighborhood.
City Councilman Fred Burton said homeowners are concerned about how the proposed facility could affect the area’s future and traffic patterns.
“If you look around, you see these beautiful homes…” Burton said, adding that residents are questioning what type of activity the facility could bring to the street.
He also said neighbors are unsure about what level of traffic or visitation the center might generate.
Joe Garcia, who built his home next door a few years ago, said his family, including his daughter, lives steps from the property.
Garcia said his concern centers on uncertainty about who would live at the facility and how supervision would work.
“There’s kids that walk through here… what kind of youth are going to be in here?” Garcia said.
He added that without clear details about security and oversight, it is difficult to know what to expect.
Research from criminal justice studies indicates community-based youth treatment facilities do not typically increase crime in surrounding areas. Experts have found such programs are often associated with lower recidivism compared with secure detention, with outcomes largely dependent on supervision and program structure rather than location.
In a video message to residents, the mayor said the city did not initially know the home would be proposed as a treatment center.
She said Arcola has no zoning laws and no active homeowners association to enforce old deed restrictions, limiting what city officials can regulate regarding private property use.
The mayor also said the project is protected under federal fair housing law and subject to state regulation.
“We cannot discriminate against people because of any disabilities…” the mayor said, adding that the facility is heavily regulated by the state.
City officials say they can enforce local ordinances but cannot block the project solely based on its intended use.
The person listed as the homeowner told reporters she sold the property. However, when contacted at the number associated with the sale, the individual who answered said she had no knowledge of the treatment center proposal.
City leaders have scheduled a public meeting Monday at 6 p.m. to answer residents’ questions and explain what authority the city has and does not have moving forward.