Residents of the Katamonim area of Jerusalem are adamantly opposed to a vacant building being used to launch a Chabad kindergarten. The opponents are protesting in force despite the granting of a permit for the Chabad kindergarten by Jerusalem City Hall.

The building is known as Beit Elisheva, which to date housed the Re�ut School. Re�ut relocated to another building, and City Hall decided to permit Chabad to enter. A number of Katamon residents are opposed, prompting a harshly-worded letter of opposition to City Hall. The opponents want the building to become a community center or serve the same religious segment, not chareidim. Opponents state they will do everything possible to prevent Chabad from moving in; even using �extreme methods,� adding they feel compelled to prevent the continued migration of the �liberal educated residents� from the capital.

In its response, City Hall released a statement that the Chabad kindergarten will serve children from orthodox, traditional and secular homes. The city adds a new kindergarten will not be moving in, but an existing one that must vacate its present unsuitable structure, adding the solution is viewed by the city as a temporary one.

(Yechiel Spira � YWN Israel)