In a recent government meeting, discussions centered around a proposal for the establishment of the Asafah Academy, a K-8 school, alongside a mosque and daycare facility in Blaine, Minnesota. The proposal comes in the wake of the closure of Rasmussen College in 2022, which previously occupied the site. The existing building, spanning 25,000 square feet, is set to be repurposed for the new educational and worship facilities.

The proposed mosque will accommodate up to 118 worshippers, while the school aims to enroll 150 students, with expectations to increase to 200 within two years. The average classroom size is projected to be around 20 students. The site plan includes designated areas for the mosque, school classrooms, and a daycare, with a clear traffic flow for drop-off and pick-up.

The current zoning, classified as Planned Business District (PBD), permits places of worship through a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) but does not allow elementary education. Therefore, the applicants are seeking a rezoning to a Development Flexibility (DF) designation, which would allow for the proposed school and require a CUP for all uses.

Public comments during the meeting reflected a mix of support and opposition. Imam Asad Zaman, representing the Muslim American Society of Minnesota, emphasized the need for educational options for the growing Muslim community in Blaine, noting that many families currently send their children to schools outside the city. Other community members echoed this sentiment, highlighting the importance of providing diverse educational opportunities that align with family values.

The council is expected to make recommendations regarding the rezoning and the CUP for the mosque, daycare, and school in the coming weeks. The outcome of this proposal could significantly impact the local community by enhancing educational options and accommodating the needs of a diverse population.