(07/09/18) - A former house of worship in Gaines Township will soon have new tenants with a much different plan to use the facility.

The seeds that will be planted there won't be for spiritual growth. That is not sitting well with some neighbors of the former Jerusalem Missionary Baptist Church on Jennings Road.

Jason Brown lived in the rural area of Gaines Township for nearly a decade. He enjoys the peace that often comes with small-town living.

But he fears that sense of community is about to be greatly disturbed by the medical marihuana growing facility moving in down the road.

"We've been to township meetings trying to fight it the best we could and it ended up being the legalities of it. They are within their rights to do it," Brown said.

Last week, the Gaines Township Planning Commission approved plans for the medical marihuana grow facility in the long-vacant church.

"It's sad because you tell your kids to stay away from drugs and you got one coming right across the street," Brown said.

He understands the need for this type of business, but is worried about what else it might bring to the area.

"I just don't want just want crime coming to my front door, basically," Brown said.

Township Supervisor Paul Fortino recognizes Brown's concerns, but he said the township is simply operating within the law.

"I don't believe that the township is in any conflict with the residents. We agree with a lot of they are saying and we are between a rock and a hard place when it comes to something that is legal under the state's statues," Fortino said.

The former church will house marihuana grown by one caregiver with five patients operating out of the facility.

Fortino said the owner will be required to add fencing and surveillance cameras, which the township will have access to view in case something happens.

Brown is still cautiously optimistic about his new neighbors and their potential for growth.

"We are just hoping for the best. Maybe it will go out of business as fast as it came in," Brown said.