Neighbors upset about planned mosque in mall

KENNESAW, Ga. — The Kennesaw City Council heard from passionate speakers but postponed a decision on plans to place a temporary mosque at a shopping center.

The temporary mosque would be placed at the corner of a strip mall on Jiles Road for as long as two years.

Mayor Mark Matthews told Channel 2 Action News that most of the objections are based on religious grounds, but the city planned to review the proposal based simply on code compliance.

The group applying for the permit told city leaders that as many as 20 families would worship at the center until they can find a permanent home.

Matthews said it's the first time a religious group has applied for a retail location. There are concerns from some that frequent prayer services will conflict with other businesses nearby.

The second and final public hearing took place Tuesday in Kennesaw with residents packing the room to have their voices heard.

After several hours of public comment, city leaders tabled a decision for two weeks.

WSBTV