Okemos Christian Center v. Meridian Charter Township

Location: Lansing, MI
Issue: Property Rights
Status: Open

Overview:  Okemos Christian Center is a Church and Christian school with a mission to reach out to the community and ministering to people of all ages, from children to adults.  In an effort to accomodate an ever growing congregation, Okemos petitioned the township of Meridian, Michigan to allow the center to expand their facility on their own land to increases accomodation as well as operate a Christian school.  The township has repeatedly denied these requests, so Okemos sued, and a district court ruled in the Christian Center's favor in 2005.  Following an appeal, OCC brought the Becket Fund aboard.  In September, the Becket Fund argued before the 6th Circuit Court of Appeals, defending the rights of the OCC.  A decision is expected before May 2007.

Articles & News Items

• "Appeal of RLUIPA Decision Prompts Becket Fund Appearance," October 13, 2005
• "Brief Defends Strong RLUIPA Decision on Appeal," April 21, 2006
• "Becket Fund Defends Lansing Church in Federal Court of Appeals," September 20, 2006