FARGO, N.D. (trfnews.i234.me) – A local coalition group is continuing its fight to prevent a sex offender treatment center from operating in their neighborhood, citing concerns over its proximity to schools and the YWCA.
The group, known as the South University Drive Coalition, has been actively opposing the relocation of STAND (Sex Offender Treatment and Assessment North Dakota) to 2627 University Drive South. Initially, STAND had planned to remain near the Cass County Jail, but the coalition now claims the organization is moving forward with plans for the new location despite initial reassurances.
Community Concerns and Opposition Efforts
Jess Azure, a member of the coalition, said the group’s primary issue is the location’s proximity to schools and community facilities.
“We were trying to identify properties and present ideas to STAND. We were obviously trying to be mindful of the budget that they had, trying to look for spaces that were over one mile from any school within the Fargo area,” Azure stated.
The coalition has offered to buy the building or help find an alternate location but says STAND is still considering University Drive as a long-term operational site.
STAND’s Response
STAND declined to go on camera but released a written statement emphasizing its commitment to community safety, transparency, and collaboration.
Key points from STAND’s statement:
- STAND is still evaluating options and has not made a final decision on its long-term location.
- They are considering ways to remain at the University Drive site while implementing risk mitigation measures.
- Security camera installations are not an indication of deception but a “reasonable and prudent measure to protect the building.”
STAND also mentioned that it is assessing ways to modify operational hours and protocols to address community concerns if they remain at University Drive.
Permit Filings and Future Plans
A building permit filed in October suggests plans to expand two existing offices and upgrade security cameras at the University Drive location. While STAND has not made a formal announcement regarding relocation, the coalition believes the organization intends to stay.
“We’re operating under the assumption, with the information that’s out there, that they are going to continue to move forward with the building on University Drive and implementing operations there,” Azure said.
What’s Next?
The coalition says their next steps will depend on STAND’s final decision. Meanwhile, STAND continues to evaluate options, leaving the fate of the controversial treatment center uncertain.
Stay with TRF News for further updates.
I’m Chris Harper, reporting for trfnews.i234.me