Groups debate proposed slaughterhouse

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) - It was a day of debating as groups both for and against a proposed Slaughterhouse let their voices be heard.

"I'm fighting here man. I'm fighting for my family. This is my business. This is my livelihood man," said Bobby Horton, a Subway shop owner.

Bobby Horton's Subway Shop on William Street at Babcock would be on the same floor as a a small slaughterhouse, that would cater to the Muslim community, and anyone else who wants to hand pick an animal for consumption.

Bobby Horton says it would kill his restaurant.

"Who's going to go get a goat cut get a goat cut and then go get a ham sandwich? I don't think that's going to happen," said Horton.

There are pictures from Mustafa Jaarah's Brooklyn meat processing operation (shown in the included video,) which he says has won achievement citations from the State Agriculture Department.

Jaarah is assuring Buffalo he would run a clean, sanitary business, like he says he runs the one in Brooklyn.

"It is a very, very, very sanitary place. I have my place running, and thank God I am number one in New York City," said Mustafa Jaarah.

While he has the support of many in the Muslim community, it seems to be a hard sell for those others who fear the slaughterhouse would produce unwanted odors and pests.

"The issue of diseases, lice and tics, whatever. These are issues that should not be next to a restaurant," said Legislator Betty Jean Grant.

Jaarah says he would ventilate properly and use tiles and stainless steel to insure a safe and disease free environment.

"People want to eat right, and healthy. That's the way to go," said Jaarah.

Mustafa Jaarah told me he would put in a bakery and produce store, separating the Subway Shop from the slaughterhouse.

He hopes the Common Council will authorize a license for his operation in two weeks.

Meanwhile, Subway Shop owner Bobby Horton says he'll gather more signatures on petitions opposed to the slaughterhouse.