He will not stand idly by.
Lawyers representing Pastor Chris Avell of Dad’s Place in Bryan, Ohio, have initiated legal proceedings against city authorities, responding to nearly two dozen charges related to providing shelter for the homeless at the church. Avell, facing allegations of violating zoning regulations, has pleaded not guilty, prompting his legal team, including the First Liberty Institute, Taft Stettinius & Hollister LLP, and Spengler Nathanson PLL, to file a lawsuit against the city of Bryan, Mayor Carrie Schlade, and other officials.
Jeremy Dys, an attorney from the First Liberty Institute, explains that resorting to federal court became necessary to hold Mayor Schlade and the city accountable for what they believe are violations of the Constitution and federal law. Dys asserts that the city’s actions are indicative of discrimination against Pastor Avell and his congregation, with accusations of a deliberate smear campaign initiated by city authorities.
The legal dispute revolves around the zoning classification of Dad’s Place, designated as Central Business, which imposes restrictions on certain activities like eating, washing clothes, or sleeping on the property. The city contends that Avell never sought approval for using the church as a residence or homeless shelter, emphasizing equal enforcement of zoning codes for all entities.
Despite the city’s comprehensive press release countering Avell’s claims, Dys dismisses it as untrue, characterizing it as part of a concerted effort to remove the church from public view. He suggests that the city is intentionally creating problems to undermine the church’s mission of aiding the marginalized and vulnerable in the community.
City attorney Marc Fishel denies any impropriety in the treatment of religious institutions by the city, emphasizing adherence to local and state laws. Fishel asserts that the city consistently supports entities complying with legal requirements, including the church’s opening in the building four years ago.
As the legal battle unfolds, Pastor Avell and his legal team challenge the allegations, framing the dispute as a fight for religious freedom and the church’s commitment to assisting the homeless in the community. The resolution of this case may carry broader implications regarding the delicate balance between zoning regulations and the charitable activities of religious institutions.