Does this sound like America to you?

I have said many times that some of the most direct trespasses against our liberties come from county and city governments. Here is an example from Orange County, California. Via Weasel Zippers

MISSION VIEJO (CBS) — An Orange County couple has been ordered to stop holding a Bible study in their home on the grounds that the meeting violates a city ordinance as a “church” and not as a private gathering.

Homeowners Chuck and Stephanie Fromm, of San Juan Capistrano, were fined $300 earlier this month for holding what one city official called “a regular gathering of more than three people” that requires a conditional use permit, according to Pacific Justice Institute, the couple’s legal representation.

The Fromms also reportedly face subsequent fines of $500 per meeting for any further “religious gatherings” in their home, according to the Pacific Justice Institute (PJI).

“We’re just gathering and enjoying each other’s company and fellowship. And we enjoy studying God’s word.” Stephanie Fromm told CBS2.

After city officials rejected the Fromms’ appeal, PJI, which represents both the Fromms and other Bible study participants, will appeal the decision to the California Superior Court in Orange County.

“This is also about a city trying to get a family to pay fees — to pay fees and pay money to them — just to be able to have friends over to read the Bible,” attorney Brad Dacus of PJI told CBS2.

My first question was if this possibly was a situation where the meetings were causing parking issues, or if neighbors had complained. That question seems to be no

Neighbors have written letters to the city in support of the Fromms, whom they said have not caused any disturbances with the meetings, according to PJI.

“The Fromm case further involves regular meetings on Sunday mornings and Thursday afternoons with up to 50 people, with impacts on the residential neighborhood on street access and parking,” City Attorney Omar Sandoval said.

So, I wonder if these folks had “more than three people over” for dinner, or to watch a game, would the city be breathing down their necks? No matter, the city has overstepped their legitimate role by miles here. This is why voting for your city council or county commission is so crucial. Often times, people who run for council seats let the power go to their heads, and those people have no business having any authority.