03/08/02  La Guira Denial 

I was at the 1:30 p.m. P&Z hearing only, but I was told that at the briefing the city staff advised the P&Z Commissioners to give La Guira an SUP.  However, the Commissioners were impressed with our large neighborhood turnout.  Good questions were asked by Commissioners.

Commissioner Larry Wheat made a motion to deny, and his motion passed unanimously. Commissioner Wheat said there are too many dance halls in the area already, and it was time to say NO to any more SUP's for bars or dancehalls in the area.  He said the area has deteriorated, and an an SUP should enhance an area, which La Guira does not.  Wheat mentioned La Guira was a destination spot and had not proved it is a restaurant (pointed out how it had formerly been a Steak and Ale restaurant).  The owner testified they were in the process of putting in a kitchen.  This looked suspicious to some Commissioners, who said it was being done at the last minute.

In closing, it was said that IF the city wants a Red Light District it is time that they look elsewhere.  

I am personally very thankful to these Commissioners for doing what they are supposed to do -- protect neighborhoods and to lead our city back to one of law and order.  

A Big Thank You also to all the people who attended the hearing because it was a sacrifice of their time.  Many in the neighborhood realize how important it is for all of us to stick together.  The rewards we will reap will be incredible because of all the revitalization that will be taking place in the next few years.  

For any questions please plan to attend the Bachman NW Community Assoc. monthly meeting Monday at Bachman Rec Center (6:30-8 p.m.).

           Mary Lou Montes Zijderveld