By Fox23.com News Staff
BROKEN ARROW, Okla. — The Islamic Society of Tulsa (IST) is now proposing legal action after the Broken Arrow City Council denied a zoning request for a new mosque.
The IST says they plan to pursue all options to challenge the denial and reverse the decision they call “myopic and discriminatory” thrugh legal avenues, including a challenge brought under the Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act (RLUIPA).
They are also considering complaints against the City of Broken Arrow with other regulatory bodies that govern anti-discrimination in city zoning decisions.
“We sincerely hope that through further dialogue and advocacy, the City of Broken Arrow will not only reverse its decision but will take actions to combat the spread of Islamophobia and to welcome diverse residents into the community, ensuring that all residents are welcome in this beautiful city.” the IST said in a statement.
On Monday, The Broken Arrow City Council voted to deny the zoning request saying the project would have required extensive grading and infrastructure work directly withing the flood plain, which is restricted by City ordinances and state and federal law.
The denial also raised questions after an Innovation District plan in the same area was approved.
