Crete “Group Care” Home Approved for Senior Living

Will County Board Meeting | November 2025

Article Summary: The Will County Board unanimously approved a special use permit for a senior group care home in Crete Township. The facility is designed to offer a residential-style living environment for up to six seniors who require daily assistance but do not need a full nursing home.

Crete Senior Housing Key Points:

• The Project: A group care home located at 24606 South Kings Road, Crete.

• Capacity: The facility is capped at a maximum of six residents.

• Operator: Lavette Oneal-Reese, operating as “Reif Residences Assisted Living Facility.”

• Purpose: To provide housing and 24/7 caregiver support for seniors aged 55+ who need help with daily activities like bathing, dressing, and medication management.

JOLIET – A new housing option for seniors in Crete Township moved forward Thursday after the Will County Board unanimously approved a special use permit for a group care home.

The facility, located at 24606 South Kings Road, will be operated by Lavette Oneal-Reese under the name Reif Residences. The project utilizes a “similar or compatible use” permit to operate a small-scale assisted living environment within a residential zone.

Unlike large institutional nursing homes, this facility is designed to house a maximum of six residents in a single-family home setting. The model targets seniors over the age of 55 who require assistance with one or two daily activities—such as dressing, bathing, or housekeeping—but who wish to remain in a home-like environment rather than a medical facility.

County Land Use staff noted that the project aligns with the growing demand for diverse senior housing options. “This type of housing is ideal for seniors… who require assistance… but do not need the requirements for a nursing home,” the staff report stated.

The facility will feature 24/7 on-site caregivers to assist residents. The board placed five conditions on the approval, including a requirement that the operator obtain and maintain all necessary licenses from the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH).