Trinity Group Homes, an expanding nonprofit that offers semi-independent living to adults with mental illness, has taken over the lease of a similar operation in Hayden.

Trinity Group Homes, which formed in 1979, has assumed the operations of Able House, a six-room facility that opened last year in Hayden.

"They were going to close, but we're keeping it open and will continue to use that amenity," said Bob Runkle, Trinity Group Homes executive director.

Trinity operates two duplexes in Coeur d'Alene that houses 18. Its construction on an eight-room duplex off Poleline in the Tullamore subdivision in Post Falls is expected to be completed in July, four months later than originally anticipated.

The expansions will give Trinity a total of 32 rooms in Kootenai County.

Runkle said the demand for such service remains high.

"We get three or more phone calls a week from people wanting space," he said, adding that all the available rooms are full.

The Able House facility was recently renovated.

Paul Vannoy, who spearheaded the effort with his wife, Tyler, and not to be confused with the Candlelight Christian Fellowship pastor with the same name, changed careers, Runkle said.

Trinity's expansion to Post Falls drew concerns from some neighbors who feared the project would reduce property values and increase crime.

Runkle said the controversy seemed to cool after he explained the nonprofit conducts background checks and doesn't house those who've been involved in a violent crime or sex offense.

"We met with (neighbors) and since then we haven't had any calls or letters," he said. "I think what they're seeing is that what we're constructing isn't junk, but a decent place."

Runkle said he has heard similar concerns in Hayden are now brewing, so he's considering holding a public meeting to be determined to speak with those interested.

Trinity recently received a $1,500 grant from the Wells Fargo Foundation for its life skills program.

"This will help with salaries for the social service staff and supplies used in training residents in life skills and helping them learn skills for independent living," Runkle said.