Development News for Monroe, Ohio

Board of Zoning Appeals Denies Appeal for Christian School's Use of Church Property

The Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA) heard an appeal from Solid Rock Ministries International regarding the denial of a zoning permit application for Lebanon Christian Schools to operate at the Solid Rock Church property. The staff recommended dismissing the appeal, arguing that the educational use is prohibited in the EC Employment Center zoning district and suggesting a zoning text or map amendment as a more appropriate process. The applicant, represented by legal counsel, argued that the proposed use is an extension of the church's existing religious and educational mission and that they were discouraged from pursuing a rezoning or text amendment by city staff. The board ultimately denied the appeal, citing that the proposed primary or secondary educational use is not permitted in the employment center district and that the correct process would be a zoning text or map amendment.