Daytona Beach, Florida – A small congregation in Daytona Beach finds itself at odds with the city’s zoning regulations, leading to the shutdown of its food pantry. Led by Pastor Ben Figueroa, the Seventh Day Baptist Church of Daytona Beach had been operating the pantry every Wednesday, providing assistance to hundreds of community members. However, the city cited a violation of an ordinance and forced the pantry to close its doors. Feeling powerless, the church is now working with attorney Chobee Ebbets to challenge the city’s decision in court.
Ebbets, representing the church pro bono, has filed a lawsuit against the city, arguing that its actions are unconstitutional. When approached for comment, city officials declined, citing pending litigation. The church’s location falls within a redevelopment zone, an area designated for improvement by the city. Since 2012, a city ordinance has prohibited food pantries in these designated zones. However, Ebbets believes that the city’s enforcement of this rule is selective.
Drawing attention to the alleged inconsistency, Ebbets stated that other churches in redevelopment zones continue to operate food pantries without facing enforcement actions. Figueroa underscores the church’s desire to help those in need and expresses frustration at being unable to continue their charitable work. The church and its legal representative are advocating for a return to the situation before the city’s intervention.
The case sheds light on the challenges faced by small religious congregations and their ability to provide essential services to their communities. For the Seventh Day Baptist Church, it is about ensuring that their efforts to alleviate the plight of those in desperate need can continue unhindered. The congregation hopes that their legal battle will result in a resolution that allows them to restore their food pantry and resume their crucial community service.
In conclusion, the Seventh Day Baptist Church of Daytona Beach faces an uphill battle to continue its food pantry operations. Though they only serve around 50 members, the church’s impact on the community is significant. By challenging the city’s decision in court, Pastor Ben Figueroa and his congregation hope to regain the ability to provide much-needed assistance to those in need. The outcome of their legal fight will determine whether they can overcome the existing zoning restrictions and continue their charitable work.