City Council denies law firm's request for location in local church

The DeRidder City Council voted not to allow Gilbert and Holmes Law Group, LLC, to place their business in the Fellowship Hall at the Assembly of God Church at the Jan. 28 meeting.

LaKetha Holmes, Beauregard Parish Assistant District Attorney and managing attorney of the firm, told council members the location would allow her practice to better serve the community. Holmes said the firm provides low cost legal council and representation to those who cannot afford high legal fees.

Her practice began in the fall of 2012 when given the opportunity to move into the church.

Holmes stated the practice would not cause an impediment to the community, and would only be open part-time.

Charlie Fields, pastor at the church, asked council members for the special exception to be made to help him minister to the community by allowing the law group to provide services.

"She has done a wonderful job helping the community," said Fields. "There is no inconvenience, and there is plenty of parking. The whole church agrees this is a worthwhile endeavor."

Denise Williams spoke on behalf of the law group.

"This will not alter the neighborhood, and will benefit the community," said Williams.

Jerry DeWitt spoke against allowing the law group to practice in the church.

DeWitt said his grandfather was a pastor at the church for many years.

"Is there a special exception granted within a special exception?" said DeWitt. "This is a fantastic work. This is something needed, and appreciated, within the community. But when you pass the special exception, you open the door for future special exceptions to be passed. Given today's climate regarding the separation of church and state, we should not be deciding what businesses can and cannot be allowed with a special exception such as a church."

Councilman Gordon Jenkins stated, "My savior Jesus Christ would not approve of what was said. He threw the businesses and the money changers out of the church to never come back. That was one of the main things.

"You want to put a business back into the church," said Jenkins. "Second you come under a 501 program under the government. You do not pay any taxes, but offer a business. The law firm needs to be in a building that pays taxes."

Council members voted four to three against granting the special exception. Council members Rice, Scott, and Steele all voted for the exception.

"I am disappointed that I live in a community that does not allow businesses to prosper," said Holmes. "But my desire to serve the community has not changed, and is unwavering. I will pursue other opportunities to serve the community in other ways." Council members also voted against another special exception.

Attorney Sam Jones had requested placing a 240 square foot sign on a building on South Jefferson.

The council voted six to one, with Rice in favor.