Buddhist Society Cease and Desist Order Overruled by Newtown Appeals Board

September 17, 2008

Author: Melissa Bruen

Source: The News-Times

http://www.newstimes.com/ci_10479740?source=most_viewed

The Zoning Board of Appeals overturned the cease and desist order given to the Cambodian Buddhist Society of Connecticut by the Zoning Enforcement Officer to stop holding gatherings at property on Boggs Hill Road.

The decision, which was reached unanimously by the Board of Appeals Aug. 28, took effect Sept. 5.

The Board voted to overturn Zoning Enforcement Officer Gary Fernette's decision because "the Board felt that there was insufficient evidence presented that there were religious services being held on March 22, 2008 and April 10, 2008."

The town's zoning regulations are clear that religious services are prohibited at that site without a special permit, which the Cambodian Buddhist Society does not have, but the Board was not convinced that religious services actually took place there.

See also: Buddhism, Zoning