The Butler Zoning Hearing Board approved a special exception on Tuesday for Robin's Home to open as transitional housing for women veterans and their children.

The unanimous approval came after a two-hour hearing in the City Building during which some residents living around the house at 401 E. Pearl St. objected to the development and many veterans voiced support for the home.

The board attached two conditions to the special exception. One limits the total number of veterans and children allowed to stay there to eight. The second condition requires smoke, heat and carbon monoxide detectors to be installed and comply with municipal regulations and the International Property Maintenance Code.

Mary Chitwood, the Butler veteran who founded the home, said the facility will open in late May or early June after the detectors and a donated air conditioner and furnace are installed.

She said the home will accept referrals from Catholic Charities and VA Butler Healthcare's homeless team.

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