Decision expected in Marietta vs. Oriana House this summer

Legal opinions are needed and a possible reopening of negotiation is on the table for residential substance abuse treatment in Washington County.

On Monday, Oriana House leadership met with parents of St. Mary Catholic School to discuss the nonprofit’s intent to open a medically assisted treatment center around the block on Third Street in the former Woman’s Home.

This is the second time in recent years a property in a residential downtown area of Marietta came under scrutiny for residential care of those with substance abuse disorders.

In 2015, 812 Fifth St., was protected under federal classifications as a home for those under the charge of the Washington County Behavioral Health Board. Neighbors had objected to the site being used for rehabilitation.

The Fifth Street home, while currently vacant, is part of the planned model for a continuum of care that would begin with the Woman’s Home location.

The Woman’s Home closed at the end of 2017 after serving as a rest home for 132 years.

Oriana House leaders told the parents gathered Monday that the nonprofit is under contract to purchase the building, but City Law Director Paul Bertram said Oriana is operating under “a significant assumption” that residential treatment would follow current zoning allowances for that location.

“Their attorneys need to contact us to make sure that they comply,” he said, noting the Woman’s Home operated under an allowed nonconforming use within a residential zone.

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