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Commission backs mosque expansion and easement vacation; Cox’s concern noted and addressed
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Summary
The commission unanimously approved rezoning and a partial easement vacation for an Islamic center at 420 East Lindsay Street to add a youth center and gymnasium; staff noted an initial objection from Cox and OG&E but the applicant reported Cox later consented with conditions.
The Planning Commission approved two items (Ordinance O-2526-30 and O-2526-53) that together allow a simple planned unit development and a partial vacation of a utility easement at 420 East Lindsay Street to accommodate an expansion of the existing Islamic mosque. The vote on the combined items was 7-0.
Staff (Logan Gray) described the request as a rezoning of approximately 1.87 acres to SPUD to allow a larger worship and activity facility, including a gymnasium and youth center. The staff report noted a 1.6% protest within the notification area and identified utility-provider concerns from Cox and OG&E regarding the easement vacation.
The applicant’s representative outlined a site plan that preserves an existing building, adds approximately 15,000 square feet for a gym and youth center, creates a central grassy play area, and increases parking to about 62 spaces. Regarding the easement, the applicant said Cox initially objected but subsequently emailed consent provided Cox facilities may remain in the current easement area until relocated at the property owner’s expense. The applicant clarified that state statute requires city action and then a district-court proceeding to finalize an easement vacation, a process the applicant described as routine.
Two audience members, Russell Rice and Ayesha Ali, spoke in favor of the expansion and community benefits of the youth center. The commission moved and passed the measures unanimously.
