By John Dobberstein, Editor
In addition to an investigation being opened by Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond, several state politicians say they are either opposed to or concerned about the mosque and retail center being proposed in Broken Arrow, which is being discussed at tonight’s City Council meeting.
The meeting is slated for 6 p.m. at Northeastern State University-Broken Arrow’s Administrative Services Building. Here’s what they’ve said publicly thus far:
Tulsa County Commissioner Kelly Dunkerley (District 3): “Our communities are strongest when decisions are made with compassion, transparency, and a steadfast commitment to public safety and responsible growth.
“Land-use discussions can be challenging, particularly when they involve long-term impacts to neighborhoods, infrastructure, and future development. These matters deserve careful consideration rooted in facts.
“After reviewing the information presented, I am strongly opposed to the special use request for an assembly facility at this location. The facts clearly demonstrate the site does not meet fundamental requirements necessary for an assembly use, including adequate traffic ingress and egress, sewer capacity, stormwater management, and parking. In addition, the proposed development would interfere with future frontage road plans south of the Creek Turnpike, which will be necessary as South Broken Arrow continues to grow.
“Portions of the property lie within a floodplain, and elements of the proposal, including minimal documentation for associated commercial uses and a lack of demonstrated development track record, raise serious concerns about feasibility and compliance with existing city standards. I am confident that once all information is fully aired, the Broken Arrow City Council will act in the best interest of residents, infrastructure, and the city’s future growth.
Gubernatorial candidate Mike Mazzei: “I’ve spoken with city leaders and shared the concerns that so many Oklahomans are raising. While it appears this project faces serious hurdles, the broader issue does not end here.
“The spread of radical Islamic ideology is a real concern, and it is not going away on its own. To every citizen planning to attend Monday’s meeting: stay engaged, stay vigilant, and understand that protecting our communities requires long-term resolve.
“As governor, I will fight to ensure Oklahoma does not follow Europe down a path that weakens public safety, constitutional values, and national cohesion.”
Gubernatorial candidate Charles McCall (open letter to City Council): “I know what it means to face tough decisions, and I know how important it is to approach them with clarity and conviction. What you do tonight matters. It matters for Broken Arrow, and it matters for Oklahoma.
“The concerns being raised by your citizens are real. They are not isolated and they are not just local. What you are hearing in your city tonight reflects a growing concern felt in communities across our entire state. Oklahomans are paying attention to what is happening here.
“This moment carries weight. Your decision tonight will shape more than local policy. It will send a message to people across Oklahoma about what kind of leadership they can expect from those elected to serve.”
Leave a Reply