However, the same law yanks the welcome mat for violent sex offenders.

"This ordinance specifically addresses risk to the community, where it becomes the basis of denial of a business license," said Councilman Lynn Pace.

Pace represents Holladay's District 2 where the nonprofit Futures Through Choice (FTC) will establish a group home next month for five cognitively-impaired young men between the ages of 16 and 21.

In May 2004, FTC - a private company that contracted with the state Division of Juvenile Justice Services to house young offenders - applied for a business license from the city to operate a residential facility at 2180 Sunnybrook Way, west of Olympus High School.

FTC's request brought significant outcry from surrounding neighbors in the summer of 2004.

The city denied FTC's application because the request for proposals that led to the contract between FTC and the state specified that some of the more serious youth offenders could pose a significant risk to the community.

The city's denial of the business license incurred a lawsuit from FTC based on discrimination against individuals with disabilities - a protected class under federal and state law.

Earlier this month, the city settled with FTC by granting the business license but barring any sex offenders, known predators or individuals who had committed violent crimes from living in the new Holladay facility.

Following Thursday's public hearing - where no residents spoke for or against the new ordinance - the council voted unanimously to pass it.

Pace believes the new law will strengthen the city's position for future requests.

cmckitrick@sltrib.com