As many of you know as we have been pursuing a property in Sparta and we have had a lot of bumps in the road that needed to be straightened. One of which was with the State and determining what they will categorize us as and the requirements that will come along with that title. After getting the County Inspector and State in communication we did confirm that we would be zoned as a Boarding or Rooming House, which was exciting news to us last year because of its minimal requirements but as of this year it now requires sprinklers systems, fire walls and fire and smoke alarm systems. These kinds of renovations cost tens if not hundreds of thousands of dollars. In simpler terms; out of our budget ;)
So what’s next? We spoke with the State further to discuss our options at this point to stay out of the high costs of the commercial realm and yet make it possible for us to get up and running. After many discussions and a little negotiation ;) We will be able to take in two families at a time; any more would put us into the commercial realm. This was a huge blessing to find out we could take in two families at a time as for a while it seemed as though we would only be allowed one. I am learning quickly that you just have to ask the right questions ;) God is so good!
We are beyond grateful and excited for the opportunity to possibly be able to provide two families with such a healing and beautiful home for them to come to and be theirs to use for a season of healing and growth.
Even though this was one of our biggest hurdles to sort out it is not our last. Our proposal is near completion. I will be presenting it to the Property and Purchasing Committee December 14th and hope to be presenting it to the Monroe County Board the end of December for approval. Please keep this in your prayers as they will be the final say. Also please keep our committees in your prayers as they have much work ahead of them. Thank you again for all your prayers and support.
We are counting our blessings one by one and as the birth of our loving Savior approaches we couldn’t be more humbled by His love, grace and guidance. We wish you all a Very Merry Christmas!
Blessings,
Sojourners Journey
Katie Bennett
Founder and President
