Yes, I read that. As for the noise part, at least during the study, I'm pretty sure I agree it's "not a problem," meaning it's not detectable or bothersome to neighbors.
I don't know the details of the parking or traffic flow, but the practice has added 10-20, maybe more cars, coming and going in a tight time window. Most neighbors have no issue with it, but one does, and the code is what it is.
I think the code is too restrictive, with "3" (which is usually not including householders) being the line where a use permit is required, and Fromms can argue that to a judge. The 1st amendment is not going to help them AT ALL. Not any more than the 2nd amendment helped Presser when he said he didn't need a parade permit, because his parade is armed, and requiring a permit offends the 2nd amendment.
Well, if previous cases where this sort of thing has been at issue are any indication, actually it will.
Chuck and Stephanie Fromm are in violation of municipal code 9-3.301, which prohibits religious, fraternal or non-profit organizations in residential neighborhoods without a permit.
The federal Constitution prohibits that. I doubt the California state constitution allows that sort of law either. Is this America or not?