Historical Background

The Islamic Society of Corona/Norco (ISCN) was established in 1988 by Muslims to serve the social, spiritual and educational needs of the Muslims living in and around this city of Corona .  ISCN was formally incorporated in 1990 as a religious, educational and non-profit organization. In 1991 funds were raised to rent a space for the Society in Corona . It became obvious very soon thereafter that this facility was proving to be inadequate for the growing needs of the community. In 1994 with the support of the local Muslim community, the Society signed a five lease for 2500 square feet business unit in Corona , which now serves as the present location of ISCN.  The current location went through the city of Corona ’s Conditional Use Permit (CUP) process and approximately $15,000 was spent to bring the facility according to CUP requirement.  In 1999 the CUP was further extended for another 18 months till April 2001 after which no further extension will be granted.  The Islamic Society’s membership has increased since obtaining the Interim Church Use Permit, which has strained its ability to conduct services at the Harrington Street location.

Alhamdulillah, in the blessed month of Ramadan 1418 Hijra (December, 1997), The Islamic Society of Corona/Norco closed the escrow for 2.31 acres of property located on 2461 South Main Street in Corona. This property was purchased under foreclosure from a bank.

The property value has appreciated so much that it no longer makes sense to destroy the house and pool to build a mosque. After working closely with Corona City planning department, ISCN Board of Directors had made a business decision not to convertMain St. property as a permanent Masjid.  It was decided that the same money could be used to buy a flat piece of land, which would be much larger and provide a much better venue for the permanent Masjid.

In September 1999 in the heart of Corona a four acres flat land went for sale. ISCN was able to negotiate the deal with the seller to payoff-listed price of $ 495,000.00 in 4 years with out any interest. Later on seller contends that society lacks proper credit history and he is only willing to sell for cash. After reviewing all options Islamic Society Board of Directors reached a decision to buy this property for all cash in the neighborhood of $450k to $475K. This was mainly after the department plan review with the City planning department and the Engineering firm we hired to survey this land.  The Location is ideal the parcel is flat and it has easy access from the 15 and 91 freeways. This land is ideal for our current and future needs.  It is located in front ofCorona ’s largest and best sports park.

On January 7, 2000 , the ISCN purchased the property and submitted the application to City of Corona for the Conditional Use Permit (CUP).  The City Planning department recommended the Planning Commission to approve the CUP00-009 based on the findings contained in the staff report and conditions of approval.

On March 12, 2001 , the Planning Commission denied the CUP by 2-3 votes and the Islamic Society appealed the decision of the Planning Commission to the City Council.  Alhamdulillah, on April 4, 2001 , the City Council unanimously overturned the Planning Commission decision and approved the CUP00-009.

By 2009, we completed the multi-purpose hall and school building.