rimination Committee accused the City of Palos Heights of discrimination, and accused its Aldermen and some citizens of being bigots. One citizen even called Islam a false religion, which infuriated the Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee and helped spark the lawsuit. The Aldermen were very much in favor of the citys purchasing of the Reformed Church of Palos Heights. The Aldermen, especially Alderman Corsi, expressed strong feelings in favor of purchasing the Reformed Church of Palos Heights. By the City Council meeting in May, Aldermens patience had been pushed to the limit. In a speech filled with anger and disgust toward the Mayor, Alderman Corsi asked to, Let the mosque, church, and residents know the decision today, (http://www.palosheights.org/gov/minutes.html). Citizens also expressed their feelings and concerns in many city council meetings and on May 16, 2000 over a hundred citizens attended the City Council meeting. The City Council heard many citizens speak both for and against the issue, however, the majority of the citizens spoke against the citys purchasing of the church. Linda Schiappa spoke as a member of the community and member of the Recreation Advisory Board. The board has looked at the church and done a survey of the people. The church does not meet the recreational needs of the people. She cannot understand why the City would spend $200,000.00 of money we do not have and get nothing. In America people have freedom of religion and we should have open minds and open hearts. People should not be afraid of the mosque but of their own fear. To date, Ms. Schiappa has not seen a plan for renovation of the church. How can we commit $200,000.00 and more for a building we have no use for, one that is too small and will probably cost millions to renovate. This year, the recreation department could not even afford umbrellas for the pool.(http://www.palosheights.org/gov/minutes.html). Palos Heights' advisory referendu...
