Coming to terms - New deal for the Center Serving Persons with Mental Retardation is a winning proposition.

Editorial  

April 23, 2007, 10:09PM
Coming to terms
New deal for the Center Serving Persons with Mental Retardation is a winning proposition.

At least 200 people will sleep a little more soundly knowing that the city of Houston and the Center Serving Persons with Mental Retardation were able to reach an agreement that will keep the center in place. Those for whom it has been a lifelong home will not, as had been feared, have to relocate because the city regarded the center's 99-year lease invalid.

The residents are not the only beneficiaries of the deal, which appears to be a winning proposition all the way around.

The center has agreed to purchase the 6.72 acres in its prime location near Allen Parkway for $6 million, far less than the land's estimated market value, in excess of $20 million. This will secure the property for the purpose of serving those with intellectual and developmental disabilities.