HENDERSON, N.C.â€â€Burning Bush Christian Church scored a victory in its battle to move into a long-vacant shopping center, according to a news report in The Daily Dispatch.
The newspaper reported the city council voted 8-0 Nov. 10 in favor of amending a zoning ordinance that barred churches from locating in a unified business district, such as a shopping center.
The Rev. Clarence J. Dale sought the change in October, but failed to attend a hearing on his request because of a misunderstanding about the council's start time. In his absence, the request was denied after commercial property owners argued against it.
Dale resubmitted his request and this time no one opposed the plan.
Earlier in the year, the council approved a preliminary plan for a nightclub to locate in the former A&P store. That plan was shot down because of neighborhood opposition, the newspaper reported.
Dale must now obtain a special-use permit from the city zoning board.
"I am very overwhelmed. We have accomplished a milestone, a great hurdle," Dale said after the meeting. "I'm excited for the city and for our ministry. I'm excited about what's to come. I just thank the Lord." (See related story, Council reneges on zoning waivers for church.)
