Florida Social Justice Network
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An Unacceptable Ghetto!
US District Court Judge Gregory A. Presnell called the City of Orlando "Sylvia Lane" a "Ghetto" and unacceptable to the Court. 
4The City suggests another alternative: that Plaintiffs hold their services at Sylvia Lane, which
is located within the same area as the GDPD, but is not a park. Sylvia Lane is a former parking lot,
under an expressway, enclosed by a chain link fence with barbed wire at the top and offers no
amenities except tables and portable toilets. See PL. EXH. 4. This “Ghetto” alternative is entirely
unacceptable to Plaintiffs, and to this Court as well.
In a ruling today on a Rule 52 Motion, the judge dismissed a Florida Religious Freedom Restoration Act count against the City of Orlando. The ruling can be view by clicking here.http://www.la2w.org/frfraorder.pdf .
The judges ruling clearly states that the City of Orlando's Ordinance 'places a significant burden' on Vagabond Church of God (VCOG), however the Florida Law requires that a 'substantial burden, defined as one that forbids a person from exercising their religious beliefs, be present to have FRFRA apply. The court found that causing inconvenience does not meet that test. However, it would appear, based on the judges language in this order, that there is a strong possibility VCOG may prevail on the Federal Constitutional claim; however that is mere speculation since both side still have until August 7th to file written arguments.
The judges order leaves 3 count outstanding against the City of Orlando.
Last updated by Alan Clapsaddle Jun. 26, 2008.
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