Dallas mosque plan faces fierce opposition
The Planning and Zoning Commission of the Dallas suburb of McKinney has rejected a proposal to build a mosque in the city.
At a meeting, more than 60 residents voiced their opposition to the proposal for a new 37,000-square-foot mosque by the McKinney Islamic Association.
They claimed the house of worship will cause potential traffic congestion and impact property values.
McKinney Islamic Association President Samad Syed said some comments bordered on blatant islamophobia.
One resident said he was worried that his children would be indoctrinated after walking past a mosque.
However, meeting participant Rev. Mally Baum urged toward openness and understanding, while sharing her positive experiences with the Muslim community.
The zoning request will appear before the City Council on August 6.
However, the Islamic Association may delay the proposal to address concerns and conduct further studies.