Residents of the Green Forest community voiced strong opposition during a recent government meeting regarding a proposal from the Greater Apostolic Church to convert three vacant properties into a parking lot. Community members expressed concerns that the addition of a parking lot at the main entrance of their neighborhood would compromise the integrity and peaceful enjoyment of their properties.

The church, established in the late 1980s, has faced similar opposition in the past, with residents citing previous instances where church events led to street blockages due to overflow parking. A spokesperson for the community highlighted that the church does not have a strong relationship with local residents, emphasizing that many attendees do not live in the area.

Residents argued that the vacant properties, which have been unoccupied for years, do not pose a significant crime risk, countering claims made by church representatives about increased crime due to the vacancies. They expressed a desire to maintain the residential character of their neighborhood, likening the proposed parking lot to placing a funeral home at the community's entrance.

The meeting concluded with residents urging the commission to deny the church's request for a special exception, reinforcing their commitment to preserving the neighborhood's integrity. The commission is expected to deliberate on the matter in the coming weeks.