City Council Approves Church School Expansion

Salem Lutheran Church & School rode to victory late Tuesday when the City Council voted to approve its expansion plan over the protests of some neighbors in the equestrian community of Orange Park Acres.

“I honestly don’t see how this expansion will affect your community,” Councilman Dan Slater told disappointed plan opponents.

Councilman Michael Alvarez disagreed and cast the dissenting vote in the final 4-1 tally. He said neighbors of the school were right to demand a more thorough environmental impact review of Salem’s plans for a two-story classroom building, multipurpose parish room and modifications to its 5.2-acre campus.

Dozens spoke during the two hours of public testimony, with Salem supporters citing the excellent education afforded children by the school, which recently won accreditation from the Western Assn. of Schools and Colleges.

Opponents said the growth of the student body from 555 to a maximum of 726 would bring too much noise, traffic and lighting to their rural community.

Salem officials offered several more concessions to the 20 conditions placed on an operating permit by the Planning Commission in the spring. Conditions include a 10:30 p.m. curfew, except for some prearranged events.