Paterson to meet with mosque developers

New York Gov. David Paterson expects to meet in the near future with developers of a proposed Islamic cultural center that would include a mosque near Ground Zero.

Paterson last week offered his help and the possibility state land could be provided as an alternative site for the project that has ignited nationwide debate over freedom of religion versus anger over the Sept. 11 attacks.

The purpose of the meeting, however, isn’t clear.

Paterson spokesman Morgan Hook says Tuesday the governor’s office and developers have been working together on the staff level. But Hook says there have been no formal talks between the Democratic governor and the imam or developer planning the $100 million project.

The Washington Post first reported the talks.