On July 5, Northampton City Councilor Marilyn Richards (Ward 3) writes…
I have created a list of those that have contacted me by email so that I may keep people up do date. I have been in touch with Councilor Maureen Carney (Ward 1) where the proposed shop is to be located. Below is her update along with the website created by Northampton residents. It’s a great resource and worth checking out. I will forward information to you as I get is. Thanks for your hard work. It will take lots of citizen activism. Here are Councilor Carney’s remarks.
I want to keep you updated on matters related to the adult-video store proposed on King St.
I fully understand your concerns, and am making this a top priority.
I have spoken with the Building Inspector and Planning Department about the application received by the city.
The building permit has been DENIED based on zoning regulations that require adequate parking for entertainment establishments; the business owner has been informed that further permitting is required. The business was deemed an entertainment establishment based on its written description of the operation of viewing booths. Zoning in this area for an entertainment establishment requires more parking than is provided for at 135 King St (twice as much). If the owner wants a reduction, they must appear before the Planning Board– if they attempt to secure off-site parking, they still need permission for shared-use. In either event, this requires a public forum, at which I would encourage all concerned Northampton residents to fully express their views.
Meanwhile, you may want to review the website created by other concerned Northampton residents: http://www.nopornnorthampton.org/
As you can imagine, this is a complicated legal matter. The city is reviewing the situation thoroughly, and carefully, to ensure that the business proposal indicates compliance with ALL city ordinances and zoning regulations. Given the impact on the surrounding neighborhoods, the city council is considering any allowable legislation that might mitigate the detrimental effects on the community.