The Senoia City Council is expected to decide Oct.20 about a conditional use request that would allow a group home run by a religious organization on Stallings Road.

John Barrow told councilmembers that his church, Atlanta City Church, located in Peachtree City, has a long history of providing help for men who are looking for another chance.

Barrow asked the council for a conditional use to cut the number of lots from 32 to seven. While Barrow did not say he was going to build seven group homes on the property, he did not rule out the possibility.

Residents questioned if there would be sex offenders on the property, and Barrow said no. Many of the people housed at the home have afflictions ranging from ADD to substance abuse issues.

City administrator Richard Ferry recommended the city draw up a development agreement with Barrow and discuss it at the Oct.20 meeting.

Barrow also has one of his group homes on Christopher Road near Sharpsburg and said the police have never been called to the residence and he anticipates having between 15-20 residents at the Senoia home, which would be 6,000 ft.

Acting Police Chief Jason Edens related a personal story about his experience with Barrow’s home. Edens said his wife had blown out a tire on the way home from work, and he was trying to figure out a way to get help to her.

Edens’ wife’s vehicle had the flat tire just outside the group home on Christopher Road and she said one of the men came out and changed the tire.

“I just wanted to relay my personal experience,” he said.

Barrow said residents would be proud of the home and the clean-up of the surrounding area.