Texas mosque-backed housing project sparks controversy as Governor Abbott launches statewide inquiry

Texas mosque-linked housing plan faces backlash, investigations over extremism claims.

A proposed housing development anchored by a mosque in Josephine, Texas, has triggered a wave of political and public backlash, with Governor Greg Abbott and other state officials launching multiple investigations into the project. While backers of the development say it is meant to foster community among all faiths, the involvement of the East Plano Islamic Center (EPIC) has prompted accusations of religious separatism and even extremist intent — claims its leaders strongly deny, the New York Times reported.

Governor targets mosque-backed community

The controversy began when Abbott posted a video in February denouncing the development as an attempt to introduce "Shariah cities" in Texas. “To be clear, Shariah law is not allowed in Texas,” Abbott declared. Since then, he has made more than a dozen public comments about the project, suggesting potential violations of housing, financial, and funeral laws. Attorney General Ken Paxton has also opened a criminal probe.

The 400-acre project, dubbed “EPIC City,” has not yet submitted formal plans, but it already faces intense scrutiny. At a public hearing in Collin County, local residents voiced fears steeped in anti-Muslim sentiment, with speakers raising unfounded concerns about honour killings and forced marriages.

Mosque leaders denounce misinformation

EPIC leaders say the backlash is fuelled by ignorance and bigotry. Imam Nadim Bashir, who heads the mosque, explained that Shariah, or Islamic law, is a personal moral code — not a system they aim to impose. “It’s about honesty, service, and care for others,” Bashir said. “Why is the governor making up things we never said?”

The mosque has long been a part of the Plano community, operating a food bank, hosting warming centres during winter, and running a school. In response to the political attacks, it has hired defence attorney Dan Cogdell, who invited investigators to review documents and procedures.

Political parallels and past patterns

This isn’t the first time Abbott has responded to right-wing social media outrage with state action. In 2015, he deployed the Texas State Guard to monitor a U.S. military exercise amid conspiracy theories that President Obama was plotting a takeover. More recently, state officials have voiced concerns over residential developments catering to specific groups, such as the immigrant-heavy Colony Ridge outside Houston.

The EPIC City project drew attention from anti-Islam activist Amy Mekelburg, whose social media post was reposted by Abbott. Promotional materials for the project mentioned “a meticulously designed community that brings Islam to the forefront,” a phrase critics have seized upon as evidence of exclusion.

Muslim leaders insist on inclusivity

Project leaders Imran Chaudhary and Sarfraz Ahmad said the project was never intended to be Muslim-only and that over 500 people have invested in the development. The backlash has included threatening phone calls, and the mosque has even received a cease-and-desist letter from the state over its funeral services.

Still, EPIC officials say they are committed to continuing their work and promoting understanding. “If you have questions about our religion,” said Bashir, “come talk to us.”

Neighbors and allies speak out

Not everyone in the region supports the governor’s stance. Pastor Andy Odom of a nearby Presbyterian church, who frequently meets with Imam Bashir, defended the Muslim community as “great neighbours.” He admitted to having mixed feelings about the development itself but said the mosque had been a positive force in Plano.

“We all want the same things,” Bashir said. “Safe neighbourhoods. Good schools. Peace.”