Federal lawsuit challenges Leland Township denial of youth ministry permit

Youth for Christ and the owners of a Leland building sued Leland Township in federal court after the township Planning Commission rejected a special use permit for a youth ministry in April. The plaintiffs allege the denial violated constitutional and religious freedoms.

Township officials say the decision was based on zoning rules that allow only certain clubs serving food and beverages in a seated setting. The township’s Zoning Board of Appeals has not yet heard the property owner’s appeal. Judge Paul Maloney is assigned to the federal case, which includes a request for a jury trial.

Read the full story at bridgemi.com.