The Coffields, a couple from Pickerington, Ohio, have filed a lawsuit against the Village of Granville and its various governing bodies, alleging improper zoning practices that have thwarted their plans to build a new home. The complaint was filed in the Common Pleas Court of Licking County on January 2, 2026, targeting the Village of Granville Council and related entities.
Michael and Tylene Coffield purchased a property at 940 Newark Granville Road in March 2024 with the intention of demolishing the existing structure to build a new home tailored to their physical needs. They relied on existing zoning regulations that did not require review under the Architectural Review Overlay District (AROD) for new constructions in their district. However, they faced unexpected hurdles when the Village Council enacted a moratorium on demolition applications and later expanded AROD requirements across all residential districts through Resolution 2025-20. This move effectively altered zoning codes without following due legislative process as required by Granville’s Charter.
The Coffields argue that these actions were taken improperly through resolutions rather than ordinances or emergency ordinances as mandated by local governance rules. They claim this has resulted in delays and additional requirements for their construction plans, which initially complied with pre-existing zoning laws. Their legal filing includes accusations of due process violations and claims under Article I, Section 19 of the Ohio Constitution for inverse condemnation—asserting that these changes have unlawfully deprived them of property rights without just compensation.
In addition to procedural grievances, the Coffields allege age and disability discrimination under Ohio law, noting both are over forty years old and face physical limitations necessitating specific housing accommodations. They contend that their treatment by Granville’s authorities has been discriminatory compared to other similar cases within the community.
The plaintiffs seek several forms of relief from the court: an order mandating approval of their original home plans without additional AROD constraints; declarations invalidating Resolution 2025-20; compensation for alleged illegal property taking; damages for discrimination based on age and disability; and reparations for disparate impact caused by unequal treatment compared to other residents.
Representing Michael and Tylene Coffield are attorneys W. Douglas Lowe, Nita L. Hanson from Newark, Ohio, along with Connie J. Klema from Pataskala, Ohio. The case is being overseen by Judge Marcelain Thomas under Case No. 2926-CV-00001.
Source: 226cv00123_Coffield_v_Village_of_Granville_Complaint_Southern_District_Ohio.pdf
