Mosque hearing set for May 7

The controversy surrounding the proposed Brookfield mosque has, to this point, been more about the questions swirling around Islam as a religion than the house of worship itself.

To specifically target zoning questions, the city of Brookfield held a neighborhood meeting Wednesday, after press deadline, to discuss some of the logistical issues with the actual building and physical impact of that building on the community.

According to Brookfield officials, the Islamic Society of Milwaukee has agreed to reduce the size of the building to prevent traffic and space issues at the site on Pheasant Drive off of Calhoun Road.

Also, a proposed turn lane could be constructed to accommodate traffic in and out of the site.

Islamic Society representatives said between 60 and 75 regular congregants will use the site, but it won't be at peak traffic hours since main services will be at 1 p.m. Fridays.

Dan Ertl, city director of community development, said the conditional-use permit associated with the project will allow the city to monitor traffic flows and have legal recourse if the conditions, like those related to traffic flow, aren't met.

As far as zoning, the proposed site meets the height requirements and will not be taller than 60 feet, nor will it have any spires as part of the design. Furthermore, no call to prayer will be heard from outside the building.

A stormwater plan has been submitted to city engineers for review and potential improvements may be part of the development, although no decisions have been made.

Next Step

WHAT: Public hearing about Islamic Society of Milwaukee proposal to build a mosque on Pheasant Drive off of Calhoun Road

WHEN: 6 p.m. Monday

WHERE: City Hall, 2000 N. Calhoun Road