Church of the Rock Challenges Castle Rock's Zoning Regulations in Federal Court

The Church of the Rock has initiated legal action against the town of Castle Rock, claiming that recent zoning restrictions infringe upon its First Amendment rights. A federal judge recently ruled that the church can continue its program providing temporary shelter for homeless individuals, despite the town's efforts to halt the initiative through zoning enforcement. The church's lawsuit, filed in May, argues that the town's actions violate the Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act (RLUIPA) and the Free Exercise Clause of the First Amendment. Since 2018, the Church of the Rock has offered RVs and trailers on its property as temporary housing for the homeless. However, local residents have expressed concerns about safety, arguing that a shelter in their neighborhood poses risks. Tim DeVries, a neighbor, voiced his apprehensions, stating, "What about my freedom? This is not what this neighborhood is about." The town's zoning requirements have been a point of contention, with some residents advocating for their enforcement. In response to the town's actions, the church temporarily suspended its ministry in Fall 2023. Church attorneys maintain that the shelter has not negatively impacted the community and advocate for its continuation to support the homeless population. They argue that the church's efforts are a fundamental aspect of its religious mission, asserting that the town lacks a compelling reason to shut down the program. The Church of the Rock has not provided further comments on the ongoing legal situation.