The Mudcat Café TM
Thread #73819   Message #2634453
Posted By: GUEST,Mike
18-May-09 - 02:38 AM
Thread Name: BS: Religious Freedom vs. Local Zoning Laws
Subject: RE: BS: Religious Freedom vs. Local Zoning Laws
I too am in Ramapo, and the issue is not as clear cut as presented. There are two issues, one is the density issue and the other is Tax free housing. Most of the tax free base in Ramapo is "public" meaning schools and hospitals open to all. But the largest by far of the "residents" living tax free are in the religious community. They use RLUIPA to force changes and live tax free. That creates additional hostility. I live in Montebello and a new Temple was built and it is an asset to the community. BUT, only the Rabbi lives on the grounds, not 300 "students" who use town facilities. That is the issue. A ward system would allow all communities to be represented. Congress is not elected "at large", all views need a voice in the town.