Patterson generated significant public profile between 2007 and 2009 as Camden Council rejected an application from the Quranic Society seeking Council's permission to develop land for the construction of a four-day Islamic school within the local government area. The Society took Camden Council to the New South Wales Land and Environment Court, and sought to have Council's ruling overturned. The Court rejected the Society's application, amidst race and religion-based arguments. Patterson, as mayor, was the vocal spokesperson defending Council's actions.
