Howell School Could Be the Site of An Assisted Living Center
By: Jamiese Price
Updated: January 16, 2013
Howell School has sat vacant for years, but it could soon be the site for nearly 50 senior citizen assisted living apartments.
It's a partnership between Joe Donofro Architects, Sam Crawford and the Bennett Group out of Auburn.
Project developer, Joseph Donofro presented plans for the living center to city commissioners with hopes of getting additional land surrounding the school to build cottages and bungalows.
Commissioner Amos Newsome wasn't on board with the plans. Newsone said the neighborhood is too dangerous for seniors.
"It is the wrong place for seniors and for any commissioner who thinks it's good for their constituents can vote for it, I won't," continued Newsome.
Donofro disagreed. He said, "I don't want to give the neighborhood to the criminal element. It's up to the citizens to take it back and I think with this type of infusion capital and quality design will give the entire neighborhood a since of pride."
The project would cost well over $14 million. Dothan isn't responsible for any of that cost. The commission will make a decision on the additional lots at their next meeting.
