If you saw this in the headlines, well, recent reports indicate that the local residents of the area around Lone Mountain in Las Vegas are actively resisting the contract expected out of the Holy Place of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS). Just so you know though, first of all, many locals believe that this project will have a groundbreaking impact on their living style, and they do not agree with the decision-makers, who had even slight consideration, in the making of this project. Secondly, they have issued a summons to suspend the temple undertaking. So, let’s see what this LDS Temple Lawsuit Las Vegas thing is, and why it is in the headlines.
What is the Issue with This Temple?
Well, the LDS Church intends to erect a highly noticeable temple, measuring 216 feet in height and encompassing an area of 70,000 to 87,000 square feet within a 20-acre property at Hickam Ave. and Grand Canyon Dr. The local residents expressed that the surroundings are serene, dimly lit at night, and free from urban-styled large buildings. The prospective elevation of the steeple, which is higher than most constructions in the vicinity, is a key concern; numerous individuals are afraid it would rather be impossible to neglect it. Likewise, residents are concerned about the illumination of the surroundings, the noise during construction, and the growth of strains in traffic flow which might compromise their peaceful way of life.
Did the City Cut Corners? Residents Think So
Well, sure, the city conducted a public meeting for the temple’s approval, but residents claim that the city conducted itself improperly and disregarded the open meeting laws that are meant to guarantee a precise and fair chance of being informed by and included in the super important decision-making process. It is stipulated in these regulations that residents should be notified of the crucial meetings that are going to take place, however, according to the lawsuit, there were no signs put on the ground of the temple site by the authority, which prevented many people from learning about the decision beforehand, and that’s kinda the main concern here.
One resident even demanded that the city postpone the meeting so that the local society would be informed properly. In turning into this meeting with the locals, the city proceeded. Locals feel that this lack of notice is not fair since they think it has breached their right to take part in the decision-making process which is going to have an immense impact on their environment down the line.
Are There Fishy Politics Involved?
Though the residents are complaining about how this will affect their peaceful life, there are some other people who are also concerned about something shady and fishy going on here. There is some political involvement in this case. Like what? Well, there are serious concerns about any favoritism or bias involved in the lawsuit. For example, Evan Schwab, the locals’ lawyer, claims that some council members received funds from the very law firm representing the LDS Church prior to the vote. And sure, local men and women think those funds could have been a persuasive force behind the approval of the new temple by the council, some of which is against the majority of locals’ opinion.
To emphasize their position, citizens have adopted some unconventional methods. For instance, one group took off a balloon the size of the proposed temple and flew it over the neighborhood to demonstrate how horrible and out of place it would look once finished. They want to let people know exactly how much this building can change the neighborhood’s landscape.
