Constitutional Law

Western Ky. town rejects Somali mosque plan

By By The Associated Press

MAYFIELD, Ky. ? A western Kentucky city has rejected a petition by a group of Somalis to build a mosque.

The Mayfield Board of Zoning Adjustment cited a lack of parking as the reason for the Aug. 24 decision. The Paducah Sun reported more than 250 residents who attended the meeting cheered the decision.

Board member Don Simpkins said previous permits had been issued for churches in the area, but services there were usually limited to Sundays and evenings on Wednesday. He said Muslims generally pray throughout the business day and week.

City Planner Brad Rodgers said the Somali group could appeal the decision to circuit court or could petition to open a mosque at a shopping center with more parking.

Jeff Keith, youth pastor at First Baptist Church in Mayfield, said he hoped a solution could be found because he didn't want the Somalis to feel unwelcome.

Full post as published by First Amendment Center on August 25, 2010 (boomark / email).