Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Hope Center Ministries topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Residents split as Cheatham County officials flag code, zoning issues at Hope Center Ministries
Summary
Eighteen residents spoke for and against plans tied to Hope Center Ministries; county officials said inspections found fire-safety and permitting deficiencies and county attorney Michael Bligh said the ministry must comply with zoning and permitting before occupancy is allowed to continue.
Eighteen residents and local church leaders spoke during public forum Aug. 19 before the Cheatham County Legislative Body about plans connected to Hope Center Ministries, a facility on Spring Creek Road. Supporters and neighbors who favor the ministry described its services; opponents raised concerns about zoning and permit compliance.
Stephen Polk, director of Hope Center Ministries, appeared during public comment and spoke in favor of the ministry. Multiple nearby property owners — including Jacob Dyce of Spring Creek Road and Dawn Armstrong of Poplar Ridge Lane — expressed both support and opposition in alternating remarks. Jason Pennington and Chris Royalty, identified as youth pastor and pastor at 24 Church, respectively, also spoke in favor of the ministry.
Franklin Wilkinson, building official, told commissioners that an inspection with the Fire Marshal revealed deficiencies. "There were some deficiencies noted during an inspection with the Fire Marshal," Wilkinson said, urging the ministry to address those items. County Attorney Michael Bligh said the organization must comply with existing zoning and permitting requirements and that he intends to speak with the ministry's attorney about reducing occupancy until required permits and any needed zone changes are secured. Commissioner James Hedgepath described the facility as "a first-class facility" while emphasizing the need to meet code and zoning rules.
No formal rezoning or enforcement action against Hope Center Ministries was taken at the Legislative Body meeting. Commissioners heard the reports and directed that the legal and building compliance issues be pursued; Bligh indicated his office would confer with the ministry's counsel about the next steps.
NEXT STEPS: County Attorney Michael Bligh and the Building Department will follow up with the Hope Center Ministries' attorney to resolve permitting and occupancy questions. No vote or formal enforcement order was recorded at the meeting.
