umn χψ discovers zoning laws can be allies too

In the normal course of things, greeks are usually the ones being sued for zoning violations by their neighbors . But use regulations can act as sword as well as shield, as the Chi Psi chapter at University of WisconsinMinnesota discovered. Developers were planning to redevelop the Dinkydome adjacent to their property, a gargantuan project sure to disrupt the normally serene atmosphere of the Chi Psi frathouse. Yes, there really is a building at Wisco dubbed the "Dinkydome." Because you asked, the provenance of the name is unclear, though probably deriving from local streetcars named "Dinkys." In the grand American tradition, the plucky collegians filed suit to stop the development, alleging zoning violations and improper grant of variances. Although the city ultimately ruled against them, the project has been put on hold as the Dinkydome Developers fought the lawsuit, and ultimately came to a financial settlement, the terms of which were undisclosed (like all settlements), but which presumably involved some filthy lucre for the soon-to-be beleaguered house. So they get the cash prize, and at least noise complaints won't be an issue with heavy construction underway next door. And perhaps most importantly, they've learned an Valuable Lesson: Fraternities too can avail themselves of the legal system to defend their rights, can be plaintiffs as well as defendants in lawsuits. Of course, they won't win, but it's the thought that counts, right?

Thanks to the reader who brought to our attention that the Dinkydome is a storied edifice at the University of Minnesota, not Wisconsin. Our apologies for the misstatement.

Minneapolis-St. Paul Star-TribuneMSN MoneyREJournals.com