Webb worries nightclub could be an adult bar

7/31/2009

A permit application for a new nightclub along East Alexis Road - already a destination area for adult entertainment - was a red flag for the Toledo councilman who represents the area.

Councilman Lindsay Webb is pushing for assurances that the owners of 236 New Towne Square do not intend to operate a sexually oriented business at the location.

That would be prohibited because of the site's closeness to Par 2 Golf, she said.

"You can see that there are children playing behind me," Ms. Webb said in front of the miniature golf and go-cart course.

"This is a good family business, and we have four family-owned businesses that are in close proximity," she said.

The property owner is listed with the Lucas County auditor as HK&H LLC #2.

An application for a Toledo building inspection lists Steve Reisner as the applicant and the business address as his home.

Ms. Webb said that the name - Lookers Lounge - and reports that stagelike platforms were being built inside the boarded-up building indicated the owner may intend to open the establishment as a bar, then quickly change to an adult bar.

"We believe the law is clear on this issue and the zoning code does not permit this use at this location," Ms. Webb said.

In Toledo, sexually oriented businesses may not locate within 500 feet of churches, schools, and day cares, or "other use established specifically for the activities of minors."

Mr. Reisner could not be reached for comment.

"Putting in a sexually oriented business near the opening of the [former] North Towne [Square] Mall impedes economic development," Ms. Webb said. "There are families in this neighborhood that bring their children into this area to shop, and they do not want another one of these businesses."

Michael Dearth, chairman of the Toledo Neighborhood Block Watch Program, said he has seen sexually oriented business open with promises of operating only a bar, then quickly change the operation.

"We already have two adult businesses down the road, and the neighbors do not want them there, either," Mr. Dearth said.