A trial that was scheduled to start this week to determine whether a Fayette County landowner was hosting church services or concerts has been canceled, because both sides have reached a settlement.

Because of a confidentiality agreement, however, details are not available.

Attorney Greg Koerner, who represents William Pritts, said the settlement is "mutually satisfactory" to both parties. He also said that Mr. Pritts will be able to continue with his venture, though he couldn't explain further.

Fayette County attorney Marie Milie Jones couldn't be reached for comment.

Mr. Pritts filed a lawsuit aginst Fayette County in June 2006, claiming that his First Amendment right to freedom of religion was being violated because the county refused to issue him a religious use permit for his 148 acres in Bullskin.

He alleged in his lawsuit that the Church of Universal Love and Music advanced religous inspiration and community through the celebration of live music.

The county refused to approve Mr. Pritts' application, claiming that he used the land for daylong concerts and illicit drugs.

The Fayette County zoning board found that the church "failed to meet the burden of proof to establish approval of the request," and "did not meet the threshold for the proposed use in accordance with the definitions and words contained in the religious use statute 'in accordance with their customary meanings."

Mr. Pritts originally filed for a permit to operate as a commercial recreation facility to hold concerts several years ago, which was denied.

The trial in the federal civil case was to begin today, but Chief U.S. District Judge Donetta W. Ambrose delayed it for last-minute settlement negotiations.

More details in tomorrow's Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.