FALL RIVER — SSTAR has submitted a second application for a building permit to construct an $11.7 million drug treatment facility in the North End after being denied by the city last year.

The drug treatment agency has been attempting to develop the three-story, 43,500-square-foot facility at 75 Weaver St. since it announced plans in November 2016 to build a 60-bed detox facility. Original plans included a clinic for outpatient treatment.

Director of Inspectional Services Glenn Hathaway notified STARR’s Chief Executive Officer Nancy Paull last July that he was denying the permit because the project was a non-conforming use on property zoned as a commercial mill district.

STARR’s attorney, Philip Beauregard, appealed Hathaway’s decision with the Fall River Zoning Board of Appeals, which upheld the building inspector’s decision.

SSTAR also lost a request for a preliminary injunction against the city in Superior Court to compel Hathaway to approve the building permit in January.

The latest permit application was submitted to Hathaway May 28 by Rhode Island-based A. Autiello Construction.

The company identifies the project as a building for “the treatment of individuals with primary and mental health needs. Non-profit, educational and exempt use.”

SSTAR has argued the proposed facility is an educational institution and that under the so-called Dover Amendment was exempt from zoning regulations. Beauregard has also accused the city of discrimination against people who struggle with addiction because of its denial of the building permit. 

Corporation Counsel Joseph Macy rejected the notion in court.

Regarding SSTAR’s latest permit application, Hathaway said he is still reviewing the construction company’s plans.

“It is submitted and is under review. There is not a determination as yet,” Hathaway said.

Beauregard, who has indicated that SSTAR would continue what he said was an uphill battle, did not immediately return a request for comment.

Email Jo C. Goode at jgoode@heraldnews.com.