On Thursday night (November 6, 2014), a dispute involving use of property and zoning issues, was resolved.
Back in September, a cease and desist order was issued to the Zendo, located at 44 Deere Lane, Andreas, and owned by Honey Badger LLC, by West Penn zoning officer Bill Anders. It was stated that the residence is being used as a place of worship. Residents located along the private lane had been complaining about the increased usage of the road which all residents help with the upkeep of. They also are concerned that the frequent assemblies for prayer and meditation deem the private residence a place of worship or a business. The area is currently zoned as agricultural. Joriki Baker, a Zen Monk, appealed the order and was permitted to continue the gatherings in his home pending a decision.
Thursday night at the zoning board’s appeal hearing, it was learned by all parties that an agreement had been reached by the attorneys for the Zendo, Honey Badger LLC and the township supervisors. The terms of the agreement were recited to all in attendance by Ms.Jean E. London Esq, attorney for the Zendo. The terms are as follows. The Blue Mountain Zendo website, as well as any marketing materials, shall continue to reflect that attendance at sessions at the Zendo is by invitation only. There shall be no more than twenty individuals, excluding Mr. Baker’s immediate family, in attendance at sessions. There shall be no more than twenty-five overnight retreats per year, with no more than twenty individuals in attendance. There shall be not more than one event per day, or not more than ten events taking place in a month.
All parties involved were asked if they heard and were present for the reading of the terms of the agreement, and Mr. Bakerwas asked if he understood that if any of the stated limitationswere exceeded, his residence would then be considered a place of worship andin violation of the agreement. He voiced his understanding.

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Click HERE to visit the Blue Mountain Zendo website.