Tensions flared Monday at an Asbury Park board meeting that was set to determine the future of a historic church.

The meeting had to come to an abrupt end due to what officials called an ethical violation.

“My objection has to do with the fact that it is illegal. Illegal for an attorney in a fact-finding proceeding to call a member of his own firm as an expert witness,” says Thomas De Seno, an attorney for Holy Spirit Roman Catholic Church.

An attorney for the city agreed.

“We can’t hear that if the witness that would testify would result in an ethical violation,” says attorney Jeffrey Beekman.

The church is located on Second Avenue. Churchgoers fear it is in danger of being demolished, with affordable housing being built in its place.

“I think it’d be a loss for the area to lose this historic structure. I don’t think there’s a shortage of housing in the area,” says Joe Raspanti, a concerned citizen.

The church has stood in Asbury Park for nearly 150 years.

“It would really break our hearts to see this building demolished – this landmark that’s been here since 1880. It’d really be a travesty,” says Pastor Isaac Friedel.

News 12 New Jersey attempted to speak with the buyers, JLD Investors LLC, but they said they are withholding comment until the next meeting scheduled for Aug. 1.