Lower Southampton officials are gearing up for a big night over a closely watched mosque proposal, moving an upcoming zoning hearing to a school gym to fit what could be a sizable crowd.
The Zoning Hearing Board session on the Al-Asr Islamic Community Center’s request to expand its uses is now set for the Poquessing Middle School gym on Tuesday, March 31 at 7 p.m.
Hearing moves to Poquessing Middle School
The township issued a public notice on March 13 announcing the venue change and listing the Poquessing Middle School gym as the new location for the March 31 hearing, according to Lower Southampton Township. The notice confirms the 7 p.m. start time and directs residents to the township website for full details.
What the Islamic center is asking for
Leaders of the Al-Asr Islamic Community Center on Buck Road are seeking a zoning variance to add new permitted uses, including a mosque and after-school religious and social activities, while continuing to operate under its current permitted use as a community center, as reported by PhillyBurbs. The outlet reports that roughly a dozen nearby property owners have been granted party status, and that township officials and the applicant entered evidence into the official record earlier this month.
How the Zoning Board will run the night
The Zoning Hearing Board has the authority to hear appeals, decide special exceptions and grant variances. Its rules spell out how parties can present evidence and cross-examine witnesses. According to the township’s Zoning Hearing Board guidelines, meetings follow established procedures for public testimony, and neighbors who have party status can take a formal role in the proceedings, including presenting witnesses and evidence.
High emotions and heavy turnout on the horizon
The hearing has already drawn intense online attention. An earlier article share about the proposal generated more than 1,000 comments on Facebook, including Islamophobic language and references to an unrelated alleged bombing, the report states. With neighbors granted party status and interest running high, officials shifted the meeting to a larger venue to handle the expected turnout.
Residents who plan to attend are advised to arrive early and check the township’s public notices for any updates. Those looking for additional background on the proposal and prior proceedings can read the coverage from PhillyBurbs.
