Donatelli said the economy is in rough shape and he’s just trying to fill floor space with a business that employs residents, provides a service, and that has been in the city for 11 years.

Discovery House Director of Facilities Joseph Renzi said they will continue to look for a place in Hermitage to move the clinic. Its current location is too small and the last remaining office in the building has mold problems.

The board’s decision may be appealed. Their findings of fact and reasons for not permitting the exception will probably be released in a few weeks, said Roger Shaffer, the board’s Solicitor.