According to today’s Journal News, local residents have expressed opposition to plans by a Shul to expand its on a small lot surrounded by residential homes. Young Israel of Harrison presented the development project at the town’s planning meeting this month to expand the size of the Shul at 91 Union Ave.

One resident, who said he rallied the support of almost 40 residents, said the Shul has chosen to create an oversize facility on a small lot in a residential neighborhood instead of looking for a new site.

The board rejected the first proposal the Shul submitted, saying the proposed parking did not support the expansion plan.

The plan now calls for a total of 28 parking spots, but residents who oppose the addition say that will still be inadequate and lead to increased parking on neighboring streets.

Residents say the Shul may rely on the Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act, a federal law that some believe gives religious groups too much power to change the landscape and character of neighborhoods.

Leslie Snyder, an attorney representing the Shul , said, “From the outset, YIOH has been seeking to work with its neighbors and, together, a conceptual plan has been created which is generating further discussion.”

The town will determine the status of the expansion project at the next meeting, scheduled for Dec. 18.

(Source: The Journal News)