(WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- Nearly 2,000 people have weighed in — most favorably — on a proposed mosque complex for the southwest side of Naperville
The Naperville Planning and Zoning Commission began reviewing details of the project during a virtual meeting this week.
The Islamic Center of Naperville (ICN) wants to build a mosque, school, gymnasium and all-purpose hall. The mosque would be located around 99th and 248th Avenue.
ICN attorney Len Monson fended off misinformation contained in a flyer that has been distributed in the area near where the mosque would be built in phases.
An example, he said, are inaccurate claims the project would create the largest mosque in the Midwest.
When built to its full size in 2060, the mosque would be limited to 1,146 worshipers. When initially built, the mosque will have a capacity of 692, Monson said.
By comparison, the attorney said, Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in downtown Naperville has a capacity of 1,300 worshipers.
Monson says the mosque building would be 29 feet high. Its minaret, which he likened to a steeple, would be 84 feet high and would be built in a later phase. He said steeples and minarets are not considered as part of a building's height, according to the Naperville building code.
Opponents say the mosque complex should not be put in a residential area, but Monson said several churches are in neighborhoods.
The public will get a chance Feb. 3 to offer feedback on the Islamic Center of Naperville's plans.
There were nearly 2,000 written comments submitted for this week's zoning meeting. According to commission staff, 1,160 people supported the plans, while 305 were opposed to it.
Those comments are expected to be put online for the public to read.
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