DUDLEY — The fate of a Muslim cemetery proposed for a 55-acre tract of farmland here might not be decided until Aug. 8, when the Board of Selectmen is scheduled to continue a public hearing on the controversial plan.

The selectmen heard briefly from three residents Monday night before continuing the hearing on the cemetery, which has been proposed by the Islamic Society of Greater Worcester as a more convenient site for its families than a burying ground they currently use in Enfield, Conn.

Opponents have complained that the cemetery plan, which the Islamic Society originally said could provide space for about 12,000 graves, would cause traffic congestion and possibly contaminate well water. The society has since offered to reduce the space available for graves by about half.

The society’s attorney has said that much of the local opposition is motivated by anti-Muslim bias. The American Civil Liberties Union of Massachusetts is supporting the society’s efforts to locate the state’s largest Muslim cemetery in Dudley.

The selectmen are expected to vote whether to exercise what they insist is the town’s right of first refusal to buy the land. The Islamic Society already has signed a purchase-and-sale agreement for the parcel, which has been granted local tax relief under a state law designed to protect agricultural property.

Jay Talerman, who is the society’s attorney, and the ­ACLU say the town does not have a right of first refusal.

The Islamic Society also has filed suit against the town in Massachusetts Land Court, contending that its application for a special permit never should have been required because a nonprofit religious organization is exempt from zoning regulations.

Selectman Paul Joseph said he is uncertain when the months-long controversy will be resolved.

“With all the twists and turns in this case, I wouldn’t take anything to the bank,’’ Joseph said Tuesday morning.

Brian MacQuarrie can be reached at brian.macquarrie @globe.com