FORMAL LETTER TO BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF JACKSON COUNTY GA Greg Brockman 494 Hamilton Dr. Jefferson, Ga. 30549 Presented: 16 June 2014 Jackson County Board of Commissioners Commissioner/Chairman Tom Crow Commissioner Bruce Yates Commissioner Jim Hix Commissioner Chas Hardy Commissioner Dwain Smith 5000 General Jackson Parkway Jefferson Ga. 30549 Request for an investigation into, and an amendment of, the "religious gatherings" ordinance, which is under section 351 (d) of the "Temporary Events" Heading of ordinances in Jackson County Georgia. Dear Board of Commissioners: Upon reading the language of section 351 (d) we have become concerned that this ordinance could be used to infringe upon the religious and free speech rights of citizens in Jackson County. We have determined that the language is so broad that it is given to the interpretation of whoever may be in a position of power at any given time. Our concern is that the language could be used to limit, or monitor home Bible studies, home church cell groups, home prayer meetings or any other small gathering that may be of a religious nature. While it is understood that a large gathering that may need parking or may some how infringe upon neighbors should require a permit, it should also be understood that a small meeting in a persons living room to pray or study the Bible should need permission from no one. The wording of the amended ordinance could contain a clause that states ", gatherings on private property need no I permit, as long as there is ample privately provided parking, and the assembly does not violate pre-determined fire code ordinances, or noise ordinances" Point being, that as American Citizens, we should not have to ask any government agency or official for permission to have a few people over to our homes to pray or sing or study or what have you. We feel that an amendment to this ordinance is needed to protect not only our freedom, but the freedom of our children and future generations. Thanks for your service, understanding and cooperation in this important matter: Sincerely,