Farmington Schools Considers Sale To Islamic Center

FARMINGTON (WWJ) - The Farmington School Board is expected Tuesday night to consider the controversial sale of a closed elementary school to the Islamic Cultural Center of Franklin.

Eugene Greenstein, who lives near the area, said he has a problem with the sale.  However, he is not upset that it is an Islamic group that wants to buy Eagle Elementary School.

"That has nothing to do with it," said Greenstein. "If this was a YMCA, a Jewish community center, a shopping center or whatever, the way this has been handled has not been by the rules.  It has not been done appropriately and that's the issue.  As a taxpayer, I want to know that my rights are being protected."

Residents are encouraged to attend.  Greenstein will protest the proposal before the board.

"We don't know that the taxpayers are getting the best value for the situation," said Greenstein. "When you're dealing with public property, these are long-term issues.  They should consider a long-term view of what is in the best interest of the public.  That wasn't done and that's what the issue is here."

The proposed sale could bring the district $1.1 million.