The following is via CTV Montreal:

Outremont residents are set to vote on Sunday on a controversial bylaw that would restrict where houses of worship can open in the borough.

The bylaw would ban the houses of worship, regardless of religion, on Bernard, a major commercial street that’s dotted by stores and restaurants. Outremont’s mayor has said the intention of the rule is to protect that space for businesses. Similar bans have already been enacted on Laurier and Van Horne.

Hassidic leaders have said the rule is discriminatory and targets their community by banning new synagogues that could be erected within walking distance of their homes.

The Hassidic community comprises almost 25 per cent of Outremont’s population.

While representatives were unable to comment on the Jewish Sabbath, some in the area expressed mixed feelings on the bylaw ahead of the vote.

“I have neighbours who are French, English, part of the Hassidic community and I have such mixed feelings about it,” said resident Mary Hunter. “We have so many churches who are also just down the road here, so it seems hypocritical to say that we won’t allow Hassidic communities to also have spaces.”

Outremont residents can find out if they are eligible to vote by visiting the borough’s website. Voting will open at 10 a.m. and close at 8 p.m. and will be held at the Outremont Adult Education Centre located at 500 Dollard Blvd.