Long Island Mosque Expansion Approved After Legal Battle
A town on Long Island’s “Gold Coast” has come to an agreement permitting the expansion of a local mosque, effectively concluding a contentious legal struggle that cost taxpayers over $4 million in legal expenses.
Last week, the Oyster Bay Town Board voted 6-1 to settle a federal lawsuit brought forth by Long Island Muslims, allowing for a modified expansion of Masjid al-Baqi Mosque located in Bethpage.
Town officials remarked, “These measures reflect a reasonable compromise that prioritizes safety, quality of life, and mutual respect among all who live and worship in the Bethpage community.”
Worshippers expressed relief at the resolution. “Today is a day of new beginnings,” said mosque member Imran Maqda, who seemed genuinely hopeful about what’s to come.
He added, “Our doors are always open to the community and we hope that our mosque will be a place where people come together in friendship and mutual respect.”
Before Tuesday’s settlement, Bethpage was already committed to paying nearly $3.95 million in legal fees. Oyster Bay had also incurred about $400,000 in outside legal costs since the lawsuit was filed in January, alleging that town leadership had enacted laws specifically targeting mosques.
In the legal proceedings, city officials later admitted, under oath, to fabricating a false witness who claimed difficulty driving through the area due to congestion caused by worshippers. Additionally, a hired transportation expert—who had initially worked on the case—was dismissed after acknowledging that he had intentionally targeted the mosque with urban planning regulations.
The agreement to resolve the dispute was finalized just before both parties were set to go to trial. Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino expressed optimism, stating, “This agreement resolves planning concerns and allows us to move forward as one community with fewer facilities in Bethpage, improved traffic safety, and a shared commitment to safety, quality of life, and mutual respect.”
As part of the new terms, the mosque will enlarge to 9,950 square feet—slightly reducing the size from what was originally proposed. The maximum occupancy will also drop from 464 to 295 attendees, marking a 36% decrease.
Lastly, an arbitrator will decide how much in attorney’s fees MOLI can reclaim, which will also be covered by taxpayers.
