SARALAND, Ala. -- The board of adjustment delayed a vote on whether a church can build a new sanctuary, daycare center and recreational center to give church leaders and neighbors who oppose the project time to discuss their differences.

New Pilgrim Missionary Baptist Church sought a zoning variance to develop nine acres it owns. The church wants to move from its present location sandwiched between a shooting gallery, lawnmower dealership and sex toy store in the city's shopping district.

The Mobile Register reported that neighbors oppose the project because they fear it would affect traffic, drainage and noise levels. They said the church's buildings would generate profit more than ministry.

"It's going to make it from a two-day church, on Wednesdays and Sundays, to a seven-day business," said neighbor Bobby Parmer. "Therefore it's not a church anymore. It's a business."

The church maintains in a one-page handout that its mission is to share the gospel with all people, "by ministering to the total man through teaching, counseling, recreational activities." The newspaper said church leaders did not respond to requests for interviews.

Saraland has no zoning area for churches. Instead, churches apply for a variance to the board of adjustment. The board will vote on the request Aug. 5, the newspaper reported.