Supervisors Grant Rezoning Request For Columbia Transitional Housing Project

Sonora, CA — A three-unit transitional housing project in Columbia is one step closer to reality following a decision by the Tuolumne County Board of Supervisors.

The Amador-Tuolumne Community Action Agency, or ATCAA, went before the board to request a zoning change for a one-third acre parcel of land to accommodate the project.

The board agreed to rezone the commercial lot located off Parrots Ferry Road on Rose Quartz Lane to residential.

Margaret Barber of ATCAA says the three manufactured homes proposed for the project would house families in transition from homelessness to mainstream society.

Proponents of the project say the residents would be subject to a strict qualification process that would require random drug and alcohol testing and gainful employment. The project has widespread support from the community.

However, those opposed to the project cite a lack of commercial space in Columbia, concerns of drug and alcohol use among the tenants and lack of law enforcement.

The board voted 3-1 in favor, with District 5 Supervisor Dick Pland as the one dissention.

The measure was passed despite previous objections by the Columbia Area Planning Commission.