ZBA ignored facts on Islamic Center

On Dec 2, the DuPage County Zoning Board of Appeals recommended to deny the request by Islamic Center of Western Suburbs to use the 2-acre property as a place of worship. ICWS requested use for up to 30 people with no changes to the facade and dwelling structure.

Those who voted to deny noted that the proposed use would be too intense for the area and its presence would lower property values. They also noted septic and flooding concerns alleged by the some of opponents. The ZBA ignored the fact that the property is already on a major road across from a commercial landscaping business and a temple. Observations of the traffic engineer noting insignificant impact on Army Trail were completely ignored as well. They disregarded a report noting the suitability of the septic design and a topographical survey showing stormwater flow away from the property and its neighbors. The ZBA apparently chose to accept the false premise that homes would lose value because of an Islamic organization locating in the area.

With such disregard for facts, I can only assume that the ZBA succumbed to the hysteria and fear created by some of the opponents with their often inflammatory and contemptuous remarks during the many hearings. To date, ICWS has accepted all the recommendations by the county officials and the immediate neighbors. They have submitted each and every report requested and then some.

Quite simply, there is no legitimate reason to deny the petition. While disappointed, I remain hopeful that county board will make their decision on facts and facts alone and redress the error in judgment made by the ZBA.

Khaja E. Haque

President, Islamic Center of Western Suburbs

West Chicago