LaSalle County board rescinds religious-law resolution amid discrimination concerns

The LaSalle County Board in Illinois voted Monday to rescind a resolution passed in October that opposed the application of foreign or religious law in the county, local station WLPO reported.

The resolution followed opposition to the prospective purchase and redevelopment of the former Fox River Resort in Sheridan. Neighbors feared the property would become a gated Islamic community practicing Sharia law. WLPO reported that Pennsylvania-based Vairt had listed the property on its website.

As drafted, the October resolution mentioned Muslims and Sharia more than 20 times. WLPO said its legality raised serious concerns because similar resolutions had been found discriminatory for singling out one religion.

After members of the public on both sides spoke at Monday's meeting, the board rescinded the resolution, according to the station.