FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

This isn’t about debating the idea of a Sacred Settlement—the state has approved it, and it’s potentially moving forward. The purpose of this phase is to help the church develop policies for establishing and governing the sacred settlement.

Typically, housing projects like single-family homes, townhomes, apartments, or affordable housing undergo an extensive city licensing and permitting process. This ensures the health, safety, and welfare of all parties involved. As part of that process, public hearings allow local staff and project leaders to hear community concerns and address potential negative impacts. These steps are crucial in cities where one person’s actions can directly affect their neighbors, which is why laws, ordinances, and zoning regulations exist.

However, the sacred settlement legislation exempts the church from local permitting, licensing, and public hearing requirements. After construction, the church and the settlement are accountable only to themselves. The legislation provides minimal guidance for managing the tiny home rental settlement, leaving local authorities with limited ability to intervene if issues arise. This differs from all other housing developments—rental or owner-occupied—and state or county-run facilities that serve vulnerable, marginalized groups. Oversight and protections were reduced specifically because this is a marginalized group, but those living in the settlement deserve the same rights and protections as anyone else. Oversight is necessary to ensure those rights.

Residents are asking to participate in shaping the settlement’s policies to help ensure its success, as the legislation provides little guidance or accountability. Without public hearings, the only way to achieve this is by working directly with the church and asking to be involved. Additionally, residents want the state to revisit the legislation to include a local permitting process, such as requiring a rental license, as is done with other housing developments.

No one stands to lose more if this project is poorly managed than the residents living nearby. If the church intends to move forward, success depends on listening to those who may be directly affected and addressing potential negative impacts.

Until these issues are addressed, the neighbors are asking for a pause.

During this planning process, you can share suggestions directly with the church and provide feedback to your elected state representatives.

To Learn More, visit www.nosettlementmg.org