Judge Dismisses Ohio Christian Group's Lawsuit Over Zoning

The Tree of Life Christian School wanted to move into a building in downtown Upper Arlington. A zoning regulation prohibits schools but allows some church uses. The judge said the group had to request a rezoning first

A federal judge sided with the city last week in a discrimination lawsuit filed by the Alliance Defense Fund -- now called Alliance Defending Freedom -- on behalf of Tree of Life Christian School.

Tree of Life wanted to consolidate three campuses accommodating 660 students at the former America Online/Time Warner building at 5000 Arlington Centre Blvd. It now offers preschool through 5th-at 2141 Indianola Ave. in Columbus and 2900 Martin Road in Dublin, and 6th through 12th grade at 935 Northridge Road, Columbus.