Notes on Chabad




I completely concur with the points made in the Dec. 30 editorial concerning the residential Oak Park synagogue, and also with the points made by Matthew Toomey.

A zoning variance is just that—a variance, not a right to get an inch and expect a mile. The firestorm of controversy that has been stirred up out of this situation will probably unfortunately preclude any such similar variances being granted in the future.

For example, what if the congregation that started the Crystal Cathedral or St. Peter’s Basilica or any other of the world’s great religious institutions decided to expand their footprint in an existing residential neighborhood? Should their residential neighbors be expected to allow that unfettered religious growth go unrestricted? The editorial point about this being a land-use issue and not a religious discrimination issue is spot on.

There is plenty of available rental space in all of the commercial centers located at Kanan and Lindero Canyon roads. I’m quite sure the owners of that space would be very pleased to get all that available space rented out for such a desirable use, thereby creating a win-win scenario for all parties concerned. Scott Tesar Oak Park



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