Plans for a halal slaughterhouse in Rio Linda, California, have advanced despite strong opposition from nearby residents. The Sacramento County Planning Commission rejected an appeal after a 2-2 vote was treated as a denial under county rules, allowing the applicant to continue the licensing process without further public hearings.

Applicant Bahadur Amiri says the proposed Greenfarm facility would meet the needs of local Afghan and Muslim communities, with enclosed operations, sanitation controls and humane halal slaughter. The 20-acre site could house livestock and provide up to 30 custom slaughter services weekly; residents have raised concerns about noise, odours, water contamination, environmental effects and animal welfare, while the local planning advisory council had recommended against approval.