Written by Don Byrd
Putting an end to a years-long dispute, a group of Amish in have settled with Morristown, New York in a battle over building codes. City officials have charged members of the community with violating regulations, for example, requiring the installation of smoke detectors. As a result of the agreement, some changes will be made in both the Amish building practice and the city’s interpretation of rules. While a long time coming, it would seem to be a great example of thoughtful accommodation.
Under the agreement, the Amish will have smoke detectors installed in their homes during inspections and use an approved method of securing their home’s roof. Morristown will recognize that Amish cellar construction meets the town’s requirement for frost-free foundations.
The battle between the Swartzentruber Amish community and Morristown codes has been in the news since at least 2006. It’s nice to see, finally, an agreement.
