A federal jury Tuesday awarded residents of a group home $293,000 in damages after the city of Springfield attempted to close it down in spite of the home being compliant with state regulations.
The people with disabilities lived in the home on Noble Avenue with the assistance of the Individual Advocacy Group, under a community integrated living permit.
The permit allows those with disabilities to live in an integrated community setting rather than be placed in an institution.
A statement from the city notes the home’s owners sought about three times the amount they got, and that the city’s point was what constitutes a “family.” An appeal is possible.