Council approves discontinuance of part of Cloverdale Street for mosque project after testimony

The Springfield City Council voted to discontinue a section of Cloverdale Street to allow a proposed project involving Masjid/Baita Salam Inc. and Breakthrough Worship to move forward.

Chris Signoli, director of public works, opened the item and said the council had considered the matter previously and that a subcommittee had met with abutters. Attorney Dave Bartley, representing the petitioner, said discussions with abutters and the worship group resulted in agreements and easements the parties believed would allow the project to proceed. Bartley told the council the arrangement was ‘‘another hurdle we can get through’’ and that his clients were prepared to answer questions.

During public discussion Councilor Hurst relayed a constituent’s claim that the petitioner had purchased property and instructed occupants to leave within 60 days, leading to court papers. Hurst said the story was ‘‘touching’’ and asked the petitioner to consider impacts on neighbors. The mosque’s representative Zahid Farooqi and a board member named Awan both denied that any residential property had been acquired or that evictions had taken place, saying the organization purchased unimproved, vacant parcels. Bartley reiterated that ‘‘there was no eviction’’ and that the parcels in question were vacant lots.

Councilors said they had visited the site. Councilor Davila described the project as positive and said his questions had been answered; other councilors noted there is one existing residence that will remain with access preserved. After discussion the council voted to discontinue the paper portion of Cloverdale Street referenced in the petition; the council president recorded the item as approved.

The discontinuance clears a path for the petitioner to proceed with planned site work and easement arrangements; council members said no displacement of occupied homes would result from the discontinued paper street as described on May 18.