Homeowners Association Settles Suit On Religious Group's Use of Community Room

Recently there has been increased concern about rules of private homeowners associations, coop boards and tenants associations that bar residents from using common space for religious meetings, worship or for religious symbols. (See prior postings 1, 2.) The latest example is a settlement announced April 19 by the Arizona Attorney General's office. A lawsuit was filed against the Sunland East Homeowners Association in Mesa upon the complaint of a group of residents who belong to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. The Homeowners' Association first attempted to charge a fee, and then barred use of the community room by religious groups. The Arizona Attorney General sued alleging that this was religious discrimination that violated the state's Fair Housing Act. The court has approved a settlement that will lead to a revision of the room-use rules and training of employees and residents to acquaint them with the state's fair housing requirements. The East Valley Tribune on Friday reported on the settlement.