The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints is aggressively pursuing a 173’8” tall  (65’ building with a 108’8” steeple/spire), 45,375 square foot temple as close as 500’ from homes in Residential (RE-1) zoning. The LDS already benefits from the most favorable zoning exception for height in the Town with its existing Meeting House. The scope and scale are not only in direct violation of existing residential ordinances and precedents; they dwarf every other structure built in the district and ultimately demonstrate a lack of respect for the neighborhood.

 

Despite pleas for neighborly negotiation, the Town and residents have faced threats of a lawsuit by the LDS attorneys, going so far as to state that a lawsuit could “bankrupt the town,” creating a David and Goliath dynamic for our small Town.

 

The Fairview Planning & Zoning Commission and the Town Council have carefully crafted their zoning ordinances. RE-1 zoning regulations were implemented to protect the nearby residential properties from such intrusive developments, ensuring that buildings within these zones do not exceed certain structure height, lighting, and utilization, maintaining the character and tranquility of our neighborhoods.

 

If this project is allowed to proceed, it will set a dangerous precedent for future developments in Fairview, jeopardizing our dark skies ordinance, the nocturnal environment, and local wildlife. Allowing the proposed CUP conveys that any entity can disregard our zoning laws. Fairview residents understand the importance of places for religious worship; however, they must comply with the Town’s zoning codes and ordinances.

 

Fairview residents have banded together in a grassroots effort to urge the Town Council to uphold its commitment to its residents by enforcing existing zoning laws. The residents are committed to protecting the Town for themselves and future generations, who have the right to enjoy their homes without intrusive megastructures destroying the peace and tranquility of the Town.

Please consider donating to our cause. Your donations will fund research and marketing and ultimately help us to inform all Fairview residents.