Residents of the Meadowbrook community in Hoover have started a Change.org petition asking the City to deny the Islamic Academy of Alabama's request to relocate from Homewood to Meadowbrook Corporate Park.
In the zoning application, reviewed by 1819 News, the Islamic Academy of Alabama asks the city to allow a zoning variance to "convert the existing office building into a school and community center with a playground."
The City's Planning and Zoning Board is scheduled to address the issue on Monday, June 9. Their recommendation will then be sent to the whole city council for a vote.
The petition that went live on Thursday morning specifically opposes the zoning request, saying, "While diversity and the growth of educational opportunities are important, the specific location for such development must be thoughtfully considered. Corporate parks have a specialized function that must be preserved to maintain the economic health of local business environments."
The City of Hoover describes Meadowbrook Corporate Park as "a 175-acre master-planned corporate campus located along the Highway 280 corridor in Hoover. Developed by Daniel Corporation from the early 1980s through 2002, the property features lush landscaping, lakes, fountains, walking trails, and a variety of Class A and B office buildings. Numerous buildings in the park have recently undergone interior renovations and now feature new common areas, patio terraces, micro-markets, and multi-purpose training rooms."
The school's website boasts a student body of over 200, with 100% "passing to universities." It states, "The Islamic Academy of Alabama has been dedicated to its students' success for over 25 years. At IAA, we are committed to providing our students with a multitude of opportunities to help them achieve their full potential. Our goal is to ensure that every student receives a high-quality education and is equipped with the necessary skills to succeed in life."
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