Elgin Illinois Church Loses Zoning Permit Case

In a Kane County, Illinois trial court yesterday, the city of Elgin won in its three-year zoning dispute with All Nations Worship Center, a small storefront church. As reported by today's Chicago Tribune , in 2003 when All Nations opened, Elgin ordinances prohibited churches in areas zoned for businesses. The city took steps to close the church and the church sued. Last July, Elgin amended its zoning code, allowing the church to remain so long as it applied for the permit. The city agreed to drop a $500-a-day fine and to approve All Nations' permit application. But All Nations refused, arguing that it "will not agree to seek a license for a church that already has a constitutional right to worship." After losing its argument yesterday, All Nations' said that it will appeal.