The Heichal Tischen of Seret-Vishnitz in Haifa has been placed ‘off limits’ by an order issued by Haifa City Hall. Needless to say with Rosh Hashanah days away, this is cause for significant alarm as hundreds of chassidim usually join the rebbe for Rosh Hashanah.
It is explained the order was given at the behest of the city engineer following an on-site inspection. He claims that the chassidus did not comply with requests that were made, ignored in the last inspection on erev Pesach and nothing was done since. Hence, the decision was made to act and not wait until a catastrophe occurs. As a result of the city order, the building may not be used for anything until it is brought up to code.
Officials in the chassidus explain they knew there are items that require attention but they never imagined it would lead to this type of response. Askanim in the chassidus are working to permit using the area for the Yomim Tovim, the venue which is supposed to be for davening.
For the time being signs have been placed around the building informing the tzibur no one may enter for any reason.
Nimrod Shai, an advisor to Mayor Yona Yahav explains the city is responsible for the safety of mispallalim and his office is working in total cooperation with the chassidus and the appropriate city council officials.
There is no indication if there is a possibility to bring the structure up to code by Rosh Hashanah.
(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)
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One Response
if i were the city, i would put up large signs warning not to enter and if the chassidim want to ignore the sign and rely on the Rebbe’s hashgacha pratit let them assume the risk.