Town in Long Island Faces Discrimination Lawsuit Over Hired Expert’s Anti-Muslim Remarks

A town on Long Island implicated in a federal discrimination lawsuit has hired a traffic consultant known for anti-Muslim sentiments and controversial behavior. Court documents reveal that Jeffrey Buckholz, the expert, has publicly expressed bigoted views and engaged in misconduct such as physically assaulting coworkers.

During a deposition on October 3, Buckholz acknowledged that his opinions about Muslims and immigrants could be considered prejudiced. His social media posts include offensive remarks, such as liking a comment that read “Muslims can f–k off” and suggesting that Muslims aim to conquer the U.S. He also mocked migrants and made disparaging comments about political figures, defending his controversial views during questioning.

Instead of retracting his social media posts, Buckholz defended them, claiming he opposed “importing outside cultures” into what he describes as a “Christian nation.” He criticized the Islamic call to prayer and made alarming statements comparing certain political threats to 9/11 hijackers. Moreover, Buckholz admitted that his traffic analysis of a proposed mosque was superficial, based mainly on Google Maps screenshots and a five-minute site visit, without conducting thorough data collection or review of previous studies.

Legal representatives for the Muslims of Long Island (MOLI) argue that existing traffic data from local authorities demonstrate the mosque’s plans are safe and compliant. They seek to have Buckholz’s report dismissed, citing bias and misconduct that taint his analysis. Critics also highlight Buckholz’s history of violence, including past expulsions from MIT following altercations and a ban from Florida state contracts after punching an inspector and shoving an employee.

Both legal sides agree that Buckholz has a troubled past, with court records describing him as temperamental and abusive. Despite this, he claims that his personal feelings do not influence his professional work. The town maintains that attacks on Buckholz are politically motivated and part of a smear campaign, as the lawsuit remains contentious amid federal and local scrutiny.