MOORESVILLE, N.C. (WHKY) — A proposed house of worship generated nearly two hours of public comment at Tuesday night’s Mooresville Board of Commissioners meeting.

The Islamic Center of Lake Norman has already been approved for construction in a commercial zoning district. Some speakers raised concerns about traffic, safety and quality of life, while others spoke against Islam itself. Supporters told commissioners that Muslim residents have the same constitutional rights and should be treated as neighbors rather than threats.

Town officials said religious assembly has been allowed by right in that zoning district for nearly 30 years. Because the use is permitted under the existing ordinance, the current board cannot vote to approve or reject the mosque. Officials also said state law prevents the town from removing an allowed use through down-zoning without the property owner’s consent.

Construction of the Islamic Center is already underway.