Lee County zoning dispute puts drug rehab center's future in question

LEE COUNTY, Fla. —

The New Life Dream Center in Lee County is facing an uncertain future after a state lawmaker withdrew funding for its expansion, and county records revealed that the property is zoned for agricultural use, which does not legally allow a rehab facility to operate without rezoning.

Neighbors Kaye Molnar and Autumn Roy have expressed their desire for the center to be shut down, citing concerns about convicted felons and the presence of children in the neighborhood.

Molnar said, "It's quiet back here, and we take a walk through this area." She added, "Convicted felons! There's a lot of kids in our neighborhood."

Roy echoed the sentiment, saying, "I'm sure the whole neighborhood wants that."

Lee County sent an email that stated the facility serves "individuals with personal or social problems" and would "need to be rezoned to establish that use on the property."

Neighbor Melinda Isley suggested, "If they can give a cease-and-desist until they properly apply and we are notified, and it goes through the proper channels."

The county stated there are no active violations at the property, but noted, "If any new complaints are received, the Department of Community Development's Code Enforcement will investigate."

However, documents show that code enforcement has been unable to access the gated property for inspection.

Neighbor Kris McCoun questioned the situation, saying, "If we can just do anything we want, can I put up a cat shelter and a taco stand? As long as I keep my gate closed?"

Gaspar Anastasi, who runs the rehab center, said he has no plans to shut it down. He explained, "I never knew they wanted to get on the property. But there is no reason they can't. They can get me anytime they want."

The facility had sought $1.8 million in taxpayer money for expansion, with plans to acquire additional property for men, but the state pulled the funding request.

Currently, 30 people reside on the property, which Molnar and her friend pass by every morning. Molnar noted, "There is a lot of trash and a lot of recycle bins, more so than anybody on the street."

As of now, Lee County has not disclosed how it plans to enforce zoning regulations, but the property would need to be rezoned for the rehab center to operate legally.

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