Opponents voice constitutional concerns over deal, file a  Grand Jury complaint

By Janis Russell

August 13, 2014 (El Cajon)-- At yesterday’s El Cajon City Council meeting, members voted 4-0 to move forward with discussions on a partnership between the East County Performing Arts Center and the Rock Church. Pro Tem Mayor Gary Kendrick recused himself from this agenda item because of a “financial conflict of interest.”

The proposal drew strong support from church members and local business interests, but garnered strong opposition from some arts supporters and citizens concerned over constitutional issues.  Today, Karen Marie Otter, an El Cajon resident and former Congressional candidate, informed East County Magazine that she has sent a letter of complaint to the County Grand Jury asserting that she believes the deal violates the First Amendment of the Constitution, which requires separation of church and state.