“Oyster Bay Caves, Agrees to Pay $3.95M and Approve Mosque’s Plans After ‘Fake Grandma’ scandal

Key Takeaways:

• Oyster Bay will pay $3.95 million in a settlement.
• Masjid Al-Baqi’s demolition plans will move forward.
• The agreement follows a controversy known as the “Fake Grandma” scandal.
• N.Y. Post first reported details of the deal.
• Reason Magazine published the story on August 21, 2025.

Introduction

The town of Oyster Bay has agreed to a $3.95 million settlement and given the green light to Masjid Al-Baqi’s plans to demolish an existing structure. This resolution concludes a controversy that captured headlines as the “Fake Grandma” scandal, suggesting deep-seated tensions involved.

Background

On August 21, 2025, Reason Magazine carried an article by Eugene Volokh detailing the final arrangement reached between Oyster Bay officials and representatives from Masjid Al-Baqi Mosque. N.Y. Post journalist Brandon Cruz initially reported on the settlement, noting that under this agreement, the mosque’s plan to demolish a structure would be allowed to progress.

The Agreement

According to the coverage, Oyster Bay’s payout of $3.95 million is a significant part of the settlement. The main stipulation is the authorization of Masjid Al-Baqi’s demolition proposal. While exact construction or renovation details have not been disclosed beyond that point, the green light marks a key turning point in the disagreement.

Reactions and Next Steps

Though specific reactions from local officials or mosque representatives are not elaborated in the news feed, the end of this dispute signifies a momentous event for both parties. With the settlement in place, the plan for demolition can advance, presumably paving the way for a future project by Masjid Al-Baqi.

Conclusion

The “Fake Grandma” scandal that brought widespread attention to Oyster Bay’s dispute with Masjid Al-Baqi now appears to have a conclusive resolution. A $3.95 million settlement and demolition approval close a contentious chapter, signaling a new beginning for the mosque and an end to legal wrangling for the Town of Oyster Bay.