Gov. Greg Abbott announced Tuesday that the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality has determined the East Plano Islamic Center, known as EPIC, failed to obtain the necessary permits to begin construction on its controversial development in Collin County.
The agency has ordered EPIC and its affiliated entities to confirm within seven days that no construction activity has taken place. If they fail to comply, the state says they will face legal consequences.
“The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality found that the group behind the proposed EPIC compound did not submit the required permits to begin construction,” said Abbott. “They must confirm within seven days that they are immediately ceasing any construction of their illegal project or face the full weight of the law. The State of Texas will enforce its laws and protect our communities from unlawful actions or threats posed by EPIC or its affiliates.”
EPIC’s planned 402-acre development—known as EPIC City—has become a lightning rod in Texas politics. The compound includes plans for a mosque, Islamic school, residential housing, and various community amenities. But the project has drawn increasing scrutiny from state officials and conservative activists who say the development could operate as a religious enclave outside the bounds of Texas law.
The TCEQ’s notice adds yet another layer to a rapidly growing list of investigations into EPIC by Texas agencies.
In just the past week, the following actions have been announced:
• The Texas Rangers are conducting a criminal investigation into EPIC and affiliated entities.
• The Texas Workforce Commission is investigating possible housing discrimination under the Texas Fair Housing Act.
• The Texas State Securities Board is probing potential securities violations and investor fraud.
• The Texas Funeral Service Commission issued a cease-and-desist order for unlicensed funeral operations.
• The Office of the Attorney General is reviewing possible consumer protection violations.
Abbott has also revealed that a dozen state agencies are now involved in examining alleged illegal activities tied to the EPIC City project.
The governor has maintained that Sharia law is not recognized in Texas and that any development operating outside of Texas and U.S. law will be held accountable. With mounting legal pressure and agency action, EPIC City’s future appears increasingly uncertain.
Meanwhile, Collin County Commissioners held a meeting yesterday to discuss the EPIC City plans. The property is currently empty farmland surrounded by rough, narrow roads.
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