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Panel Approves Plans For Temecula Mosque

TEMECULA (AP) — A planning commission has unanimously approved plans for a mosque after a contentious five-and-a-half-hour meeting that included more than 80 speakers.

The Temecula Planning Commission on Wednesday night granted a permit and development plan for the Islamic Center of Temecula Valley. The 25,000-square-foot, two-story building would be built on the outskirts of the Riverside County city.

Many speakers at the commission's meeting focused on noise and traffic, but a consultant's study found the mosque would not worsen traffic.

Opponents picketed for two hours before the meeting.

After the vote, commissioners admonished some mosque opponents for rude behavior and hateful language.

A hearing would likely be held next month if the commission's decision is appealed to the City Council.

(© Copyright 2010 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

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