During the public hearing, numerous community members expressed strong support for the masjid, emphasizing its significance as both a place of worship and a community hub. Mariam Abu Bakr, a local resident, highlighted the masjid’s potential to foster community connections, as many families currently travel long distances to attend prayer services. She stated, “Right now, many families travel long distances to attend prayers, and having a local masjid would make a big difference for us.” This sentiment was echoed by other speakers who pointed out the cultural and social benefits of having a religious institution in the area.

Further testimony came from Asha Ali, a 12-year-old resident, who discussed her personal experiences with distant travel for religious education. She articulated the importance of having a local facility, saying, “It makes sense to have a mosque here where I live.” Her comments underscored the role of the masjid in providing educational opportunities and fostering a sense of community among youth.

The discussion also touched on logistical concerns, particularly regarding parking and traffic. The existing building, which previously housed an office and a family therapy clinic, includes 75 parking spaces. Staff confirmed that the masjid’s required parking demand is 48 spaces, based on its congregation area. Concerns were raised about potential competition for parking with nearby ice rinks, especially during peak hockey seasons. However, it was noted that the masjid’s peak usage times—Friday prayer services—do not coincide with the busiest times for the ice rinks.

In addressing potential overflow during significant religious holidays, the applicant outlined plans to rent larger venues to accommodate increased attendance, thus mitigating parking issues at the main facility.

One resident, identifying himself as a recipient of the public hearing notice only four days prior, raised concerns about the short timeframe for community input. He urged the commission to consider delaying the vote to ensure more comprehensive local engagement. Despite this plea, the commission proceeded with the vote, citing adherence to the state’s notification requirements, which had been met.

Additional discussion centered on the use of outdoor speakers for the call to prayer, a potential concern for the neighborhood. The applicant clarified that no outdoor speakers would be used, as the call to prayer would occur within the building.

Following the public hearing, the commission members deliberated on the proposal, expressing consensus on the masjid’s compliance with zoning requirements and its alignment with the city’s approach to religious institutions. A motion to recommend approval of the conditional use permit was unanimously supported, with the matter to be forwarded to the city council for final consideration at their meeting on November 17.

In other business, the commission reviewed and approved a conditional use permit for Robin Stroine’s property on Clamoth Trail. Stroine sought permission to construct an accessory building exceeding the size of the principal structure on his 11.5-acre rural agricultural property. The proposed building would be largely hidden from view by surrounding trees and is intended for personal use only. The commission noted that the building met all setback requirements and would not impact mature trees, as it replaces an existing structure. This approval followed a unanimous vote, with commissioners expressing satisfaction with the proposal’s adherence to local zoning ordinances.