A mosque in the St. Laurent borough is facing heavy fines and eviction because of a zoning violation.
The Al Andalous Islamic Centre on Decarie Blvd. has been operating since 2013, but its initial permit was for meetings and recreation.
The borough discovered it was being used as a place of worship instead, with as many as 1,000 people showing up for Friday prayers.
A mosque in that building does not meet zoning regulations, in particular those involving parking and fire safety.
This issue has been ongoing for two years and now the mosque faces a deadline. They will have to vacate the premises by April 3.
However, borough mayor Alan DeSousa said they want to help the Centre relocate.
“We are trying to work with them,” said DeSousa, “recognizing that there are needs to be met, and trying to be as reasonable as possible in terms of assisting them to make the transition.”
