Ohio Church Sues City Over Homeless Shelter Dispute

Pastor Chris Avell faces criminal charges for violating zoning laws by opening his church as a 24/7 shelter, sparking a legal battle over religious freedom and the role of churches in aiding the homeless.

Pastor Chris Avell of Dad's Place church in Bryan, Ohio, is facing 18 criminal charges for violating city ordinances by opening the church 24/7 as a shelter for the homeless.
The church filed a federal lawsuit against the city, Bryan Mayor Carrie Schlade, and other officials, alleging that they are inventing problems and have gone on a smear campaign against the church.
The city argues that the church is in violation of zoning laws that do not permit residential use on the first floor of buildings in the area, and has cited safety concerns due to inadequate facilities and increased police calls to the church.
The church's lawsuit claims violations of constitutional rights to free exercise of religion and protections against government hostility to religion, and seeks a restraining order or injunction against the city's enforcement of its ordinances, as well as damages and attorney's fees.
The case has sparked debate about the role of religious institutions in providing shelter for the homeless, with supporters of the church arguing that it is fulfilling a vital humanitarian role, and critics arguing that it is flouting local laws and regulations.