August 1, 1962: Church Sues City Over Ordinance

An Oakland city ordinance, requiring a city manager's permit for operation of a church, is attacked as unconstitutional in. a suit on file in Superior Court today. The complaint asserts that the ordinance denies freedom of religion, assembly, and speech. City Manager Wayne E. Thompson said it is designed to prevent noise and parking problems, and to assure church buildings are safe for gatherings. The Metropolitan Church of God seeks to compel the City Council to allow it to conduct services at 1700 84th Ave. The council on July 3 upheld Thompson's denial of a permit. James H. Quinn, city hearing officer and assistant to Thompson, told the council the property does not have adequate parking space and said electrical and health departments reported deficiencies in the building. In addition, he said, neighbors complained about excessive noise during services, which the church had started to hold before obtaining a permit. The suit contends there is adequate parking, and says requirements of electrical and health departments have been met. It maintains there were no complaints of noise from) services the church formerly held at 815 Myrtle St. Oakland Tribune, Wednesday, August 1, 1962