Friday, March 23, 2018

Rabbi Defends Against Zoning Charges Citing Religious Obligation of Hospitality

Savannah Morning News yesterday reported on litigation pending in a Georgia state trial court charging violation of local zoning laws.  Last December, City of Savannah attorneys filed suit against Rabbi Arnold Belzer and his wife for renting out their home as a short-term vacation rental.  Apparently the rental was advertised through Air BNB. Rabbi Belzer argues that fines or an injunction would impose a substantial burden on their free exercise rights.  Their pleadings assert:
As devout people of faith, Rabbi and Mrs. (Arlene) Belzer have a sincerely held religious belief in the Jewish practice of hospitality.  They consider the practice of hospitality to be a religious obligation found in Jewish scripture and tradition.