July 19: The Daily Hampshire Gazette reports that NPN will present petitions to the Northampton City Council meeting on July 20. “The petition asks the city to create an ordinance that would restrict
locations of adult theaters and businesses where adult films or live
performances are viewed; passing health regulations banning closed-door
viewing booths; restricting the signs for adult businesses and barring
access to minors.”
There is some uncertainty about Capital Video’s plans for 135 King Street, in the wake of the initial denial of its building permit. “As of Tuesday, Capital Video Corp., of Cranston, R.I., had not filed
plans with the Office of Planning and Development for its planned porn
shop or applied for an entertainment license with the mayor’s office,
according to city officials.”
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NPN urges those concerned about the porn shop issue to attend today’s City Council meeting. It may get crowded, so arriving by 7pm is recommended. The meeting will take place in Council Chambers at 212 Main Street, behind the City Hall building.
When this store goes in, and it will go in ion some form, you can thank the city council for not regulating adult businesses a few years ago. This was done to protect special interests of council members ( friends businesses that already existed). The by-law was changed to regulate nude dancing only. Like most governments, the cit council is reactive and not proactive!
With respect to the current porn shop issue, NPN’s proposals are intended to have little or no effect on existing businesses in Northampton. We are unaware of any significant conflicts of interest for current members of the city council. We believe they share our desire for a tolerant, vibrant, and safe city.