The heated debate surrounding the proposed Muslim school for boys in Islip has sparked a passionate response from the community, with an overflow crowd of approximately 600 people gathering to voice their opposition. This incident highlights the complex interplay between religious institutions and local zoning laws, as well as the potential social and cultural implications of such developments. The core of the controversy lies in the 13-acre property on Saxon Avenue, which was sold by the Roman Catholic Montfort Missionaries for $5 million to a Muslim group associated with the Suleymaniye mosque in Dix Hills. Pat Montanino, a resident of East Islip, encapsulates the sentiment of many opponents, stating, 'It’s going to disrupt the character of the neighborhood. It doesn’t fit.' The concerns extend beyond aesthetics and neighborhood character, with residents also expressing fears about increased traffic in the area. The property's history as a minor seminary for teenage boys considering the priesthood adds a layer of complexity to the debate. The seminary, founded in 1926, closed in 1972 and has since been used as a retreat house and headquarters for the Montfort order. The proposed boarding school for Muslim boys, which would house up to 120 students and 20 staff members, has been met with resistance from those who argue that it does not align with the town's zoning laws. The attorney representing the Muslim group, Samuel L. Bifulco, counters that the existing building has operated as a boarding school for decades and that the property is zoned to accommodate a church, mosque, or synagogue with a capacity of 1,300 people. He emphasizes that the school will not host weddings or catered events, addressing traffic concerns by noting that only 10 teachers will commute. However, the debate is far from over, with some appeals board members questioning the lack of a full public hearing for the project. Residents, represented by attorney Steven Bertolino, argue that the town laws do not allow a dormitory on the property, further complicating the situation. The Montforts' decision to sell the property, citing financial constraints and a dwindling number of members, has been a central point of contention. The group previously faced a similar rejection when they attempted to sell the property to Sunrise Senior Living for an assisted living facility, a plan that was met with opposition from residents. The eight-year battle over the property's future underscores the challenges of balancing religious and cultural considerations with local zoning regulations. This incident serves as a reminder of the intricate relationship between religious institutions, local communities, and the legal frameworks that govern land use and development.
