Lincoln Park — During citizen communications at the Dec. 23 meeting, a resident criticized a mosque on Fort Street and said its presence was "unsettling," language that prompted council members to stop the speaker and request the remark be submitted in writing.

Kay Schneider said she was "deeply concerned" that a mosque existed in Lincoln Park, repeatedly described the mosque as unsettling and asserted, "Islam is not a religion." Several council members and attendees interrupted and cautioned that such comments could be perceived as anti-religious or racial; one official told the speaker the council would accept the comment in writing rather than permit a public denunciation at the podium.

Other residents at the meeting responded. Joanna Whaley, who identified herself as a resident and a seminary graduate, praised the council for protecting everyone's right to worship and thanked the council for keeping Lincoln Park "a safe place for everyone." A city official reminded the audience that the mosque has been part of the city community for many years and said it was inappropriate to allow an attack on anyone's faith from the podium.

The exchange illustrates how public-comment periods can become contentious and the council's role in moderating remarks to keep meetings orderly and to protect residents’ rights to worship.

Next steps: Council asked the speaker to supply written comments; no formal action was taken.