Core Viewpoint - A local resident, Brandon Perez, is advocating against the construction of the Sri Ayyappa Swami Temple near his home, proposing instead the development of a community park that would serve a broader demographic [3][4][5]. Demographics and Community Impact - Perez presented demographic data indicating that as of 2025, the largest racial group in Joliet is white-European at 52%, with 33% Hispanic, 16% African-American, and 2% Asian [5]. - In Plainfield, approximately 9.3% of the population identifies as Asian, and only 0.2% as American Indian and Alaskan native [5]. - He argued that the temple would cater to a small fraction of the population, estimating that less than 1% of the combined population of Joliet and Plainfield, which totals around 200,000 residents, would attend the temple [5]. Alternative Proposal - Perez proposed the creation of a community park that would provide recreational opportunities for all residents, emphasizing inclusivity over the religious focus of the temple [4][5]. - He highlighted that the park would feature various entertainment and physical exercise amenities, benefiting a larger segment of the community compared to the temple [5].