NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) – A village of more than 20 small homes planned in Tennessee’s capital city for homeless individuals has concerned residents who’re now suing over the project.
WTVF-TV reported on Monday that residents have filed a lawsuit against Nashville’s Zoning Appeals board and local United Methodist Church over the project.
The 220-square-foot (20-square-meter) houses are planned to be on the grounds of Glencliff United Methodist Church.
In May the board approved a building permit for the project, citing federal and state land-use laws that protect places of worship from zoning rules. Jessica Van Dyke, who lives near the property, says the project is spearheaded by a non-profit using the law to circumvent zoning regulations.
Andrew Preston, an attorney for the church, said in a statement that it remains committed to the project.