Heroic Pastor Receives Heartwarming Triumph
City officials in a small Ohio town have reached an agreement to dismiss all criminal charges against a local pastor accused of housing homeless individuals at his church, allegedly violating zoning laws.
Pastor Chris Avell, who oversees Dad’s Place in Bryan, found himself embroiled in a dispute with the city after opting to keep his church open around the clock last March due to overcrowding at the nearby homeless shelter. He faced 18 charges related to zoning violations, including issues with kitchen and laundry facilities, unsafe exits, and ventilation.
The building, zoned as Central Business, was deemed prohibited from offering amenities like dining, laundry, or sleeping arrangements, prompting the legal action against Avell.
The case gained national attention, prompting the city to release a comprehensive 42-page press release detailing Avell’s alleged violations. However, after Avell pleaded not guilty and his legal team initiated legal action against the city, both parties met on Feb. 1 to discuss the matter.
As a result of the meeting, the city agreed to drop the charges against Avell on the condition that he cease residential operations, obtain necessary certifications and permits, and implement safety measures as required by law.
Avell expressed gratitude for the resolution, emphasizing his commitment to serving his community. His legal counsel also commended the city’s decision, highlighting the importance of ministries like Dad’s Place in providing essential services to communities.
Bryan Mayor Carrie Schlade echoed these sentiments, applauding the cooperative effort between the city and Dad’s Place to resolve their differences and ensure the safe delivery of services.
Established in 2018, Dad’s Place offers various services to the community, including free haircuts, Bible studies, and other events. Avell, during an emotional interview, underscored his belief in the church’s mission to serve and minister to those in need, emphasizing the importance of compassion, truth, and selflessness in fulfilling this calling.