Iglesia Pentecostal Seeks Blessing From City Commission

A church that has been operating in a small storefront in the Forest Ridge Plaza shopping center is now working with the city to obtain the permit necessary to continue holding services.

In January, reports of after-hours noise coming from some of the shops at Muirlands Boulevard and Ridge Route Drive revealed three small churches operating without proper permits.

Two congregations decided not to try for a site permit; Iglesia Pentecostal Unida Latinoamericana, however, pursued the permitting process.

The church, IPUL, is scheduled to come before the Planning Commission on Thursday evening to ask for approval for its continued operation at 24412 Muirlands Blvd., in two suites. IPUL has agreed to construct an additional restroom, per building code requirements, according to a city staff report.

According to the report, the church operates in 1,600 square feet, with an 800-square-foot assembly area for church services, an office, childen's room, multi-purpose area and restrooms. The assembly area does not have fixed seating but the church seats 48.

Services are Wednesdays and Fridays from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. and Sundays from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The space will be used for administrative work during normal business hours on weekdays.

The Planning Commission meets 7 p.m. Thursday in , 25550 Commercentre Dr.