Tyler woman's request to run rescue mission for addicts from her - KYTX CBS 19 Tyler Longview News Weather Sports

TYLER (TYLER MORNING TELEGRAPH) - The Tyler City Council denied a request today to allow Denise Walker to operate the "Addict Ministries" rescue mission out of her home.

Elected leaders said the location, 1016 Rusk St., was not appropriate for adult rehabilitation activities, as it is zoned for single families.

Ms. Walker's home has been operating as a type of transitional residence for men on parole from the Texas Department of Criminal Justice and others leading troubled lives.

Ms. Walker said her ministry aims to stabilize men plagued with societal issues such as homelessness and a criminal past by providing them with stable housing, job training and biblical guidance.

But Tyler's zoning laws prohibit half-way houses and rescue missions in that particular location — to operate legally, the ministry would need a zoning change and special use permit.

City officials said the ministry's objectives are admirable, but poorly located.

The city notified Ms. Walker in February that her ministry's current activities were illegal under current zoning and she had 30 days to make other arrangements, officials said.

When code enforcement officers returned for a follow up, there were still parolees living there on restricted confinement, officials said.

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