The meeting’s primary focus was on Application 24 col 38, related to the ICCC’s site plan and variance for developing a reduced three-story structure from its initial four-story proposal. The facility aims to include 29 residential units, prompting questions about the adequacy of current parking arrangements. The board members, along with community representatives, scrutinized the potential exacerbation of existing parking issues. Currently, mosque activities lead to overflow parking on residential streets, affecting emergency vehicle access and causing inconvenience to residents.

Concerns were raised about the ICCC’s ability to handle increased parking demand once the new residential units are occupied. The executive director of the ICCC acknowledged the current challenge of insufficient parking, with mosque attendance figures ranging from 150 to 180 for the first service and 80 to 100 for the second service on Fridays. Despite efforts to manage the situation by limiting parking to one side of Preston, logistical challenges remain, including the absence of a previous parking agreement with a nearby church.

Residents also highlighted the potential health implications of the ICCC’s operations. Questions were raised regarding the disposal of biohazard materials from body washing practices linked to the Islamic Burial Services Association (IBSA), which is affiliated with the ICCC. The representative from the ICCC lacked detailed knowledge on these processes, leading to further concerns about adherence to public health laws.

The architectural plans for the ICCC expansion include a 2,700 square foot community hall and a 38 by 47-foot main prayer hall, separated by a curtain. These spaces are anticipated to accommodate larger congregations, though the frequency and management of such gatherings remain unclear. The proposed addition will include an elevator for ADA accessibility, addressing the existing building’s lack of such facilities.

Public inquiries regarding the design elements of the new residential component focused on the number of available parking spaces. The current plan includes 40 spaces beneath the structure, not exclusively for residents, which led to questions about the potential loss of parking due to construction. Concerns were also voiced about the adequacy of fire egress and evacuation plans, especially for residents with disabilities.

The potential impact on the mosque’s tax-exempt status was another topic of discussion. Clarification was provided that the residential units would be subject to taxation, while the mosque’s tax-exempt status would remain unchanged. This decision aligns with the tax assessor’s memo.

Residents expressed feelings of neglect, demanding accountability and proactive measures from the ICCC to address parking and traffic issues. They called for open dialogue to rebuild trust and mitigate the ongoing challenges posed by the mosque’s operations and proposed expansion.