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Posted by: taxthedeer Nov 10 2011, 12:13 PM

Appearently a Gentlemen's Strip Club is attempting to locate at U.S. 421 south of I-94 just down the road from Coolspring Elementary school. The Michigan City Area Schools have adoped a resolution to the La Porte County Zoning Board of Appeals to stop it from going in.

Posted by: southsiderMMX Nov 10 2011, 12:21 PM

Wow. How come we haven't heard about this one before? I'll have to look at the zoning to see if it is even possible.

Posted by: taxthedeer Nov 10 2011, 12:25 PM

It was just reported on WEFM. Mr. Bill Greene is the school board member who wrote and read the resolution.

Posted by: southsiderMMX Nov 10 2011, 12:30 PM

Again, wow. How did this not get out before the school board meeting?

Posted by: southsiderMMX Nov 10 2011, 01:00 PM

It looks like the LP Co BZA's next meeting is November 15th. I wonder if it is on the agenda for then? Of course the agenda isn't up on their website.

Posted by: southsiderMMX Nov 10 2011, 07:16 PM

http://thenewsdispatch.com/articles/2011/11/10/news/local/doc4ebb54fa25538780119609.txt

QUOTE

MCAS opposes proposed gentleman’s club

By Amanda Jacobson
Staff Writer
Published: Thursday, November 10, 2011 5:08 PM CST
MICHIGAN CITY — The Michigan City Area Schools board unanimously supported a motion Wednesday night to oppose a zoning variance that might allow a gentleman’s club to be built not far from Coolspring Elementary School.

Assistant Superintendent Xavier Botana said school buses and families pass by U.S. 421 and Interstate 94 – the proposed site of the new business – to and from school, and it would be unfit for children to see the establishment, should it be built there.

The board’s opposition will be sent to the La Porte County Board of Zoning Appeals, which will consider the matter Tuesday. The exact address for the proposed club is 3205 N. U.S. 421.

Also at the meeting:

*
• Jan Radford, MCAS director of curriculum, presented initial plans for the restructuring of the Michigan City High School course book.

Radford said the goals of the new book include the need to expand safety nets for students, improve upon existing career tech courses and realign district arts programs.

Radford proposed the high school curricula include a new required freshman course titled “Orientation to Life and Careers,” which will prepare students for college course planning, improve study skills, align high school course selection so students graduate on time and create personal learning plans for each student.

Superintendent Barbara Eason-Watkins said she feels the new course is a step in the right direction, from what she learned while having lunch with high school students last year.

• Thirty-six MCAS K-8 teachers will receive grants this year from the Michigan City Education Foundation. The grants were sponsored by the Unity Foundation and established by Mary Lou Linnen of Michigan City. The MCAS school board also announced its support of the Unity Foundation’s new vision statement.

• Board members unanimously approved a new tax anticipation warrant resolution, with which the school system could refinance its debts and save an estimated $207,000 in total expenses after one year.

Posted by: taxthedeer Nov 11 2011, 12:23 AM

Does anybody know who actually owns the property at 3205 N. U.S. 421? Who is trying to purchase it?

It's either being offered by or recently sold through Coldwell Banker sales associate Jay Gottleber who lives in Valparaiso.

It's a 414' X 500' 4.6 acre rectangular tract of land just north of the Harbor Superstore car dealership/Frontier Lawn & Rec John Deere dealership on Frontage Rd. 1000' off 300 N.

Asking price is $495,000.

I'm guessing the people trying to establish this business are from Chicago.

Attached Image

.http://www.coldwellbankeronline.com/property/details/2251555/MLS-292903/3205-North-Us-421-Michigan-City-IN-46360.aspx?SearchID=5011062&RowNum=9&StateID=20&RegionID=0&IsRegularPS=True&IsSold=False

http://www.dailymotion.com/video/xf76q0_homes-for-sale-3205-n-us-highway-42_travel

Posted by: Bellah Nov 11 2011, 12:52 PM

OK, I guess I will get some bashing for this one, but why is this such a big deal? I get that it is "in route" to a school, but trust me when I say school kids walk around, by and through much worse then a sign on a pole (no pun intended) promoting a legal club on the way to school each day. Business is Business is Business. If someone is willing to invest in our town, why are we complaining?

Just my thoughts,
Bellah

Posted by: southsiderMMX Nov 11 2011, 02:59 PM

QUOTE(Bellah @ Nov 11 2011, 12:52 PM)

OK, I guess I will get some bashing for this one, but why is this such a big deal? I get that it is "in route" to a school, but trust me when I say school kids walk around, by and through much worse then a sign on a pole (no pun intended) promoting a legal club on the way to school each day. Business is Business is Business. If someone is willing to invest in our town, why are we complaining?

Just my thoughts,
Bellah

First of it isn't actually "in town" from a technical sense. It is just outside of the City limits. Most importantly, think of the towns in the area that have these type of establishments. When I think of them, my first reaction is I want no more in common with those towns than we already have. It is not the type of image we want to project, and the type of image that City needs to portray. We can do better.

Posted by: MCRogers1974 Nov 11 2011, 03:04 PM

I believe that area is not serviced by sewers. I wonder if a septic system can handle the amount of people who would go to that business.

Posted by: southyards Nov 11 2011, 04:35 PM

QUOTE(southsiderMMX @ Nov 11 2011, 02:59 PM)

First of it isn't actually "in town" from a technical sense. It is just outside of the City limits. Most importantly, think of the towns in the area that have these type of establishments. When I think of them, my first reaction is I want no more in common with those towns than we already have. It is not the type of image we want to project, and the type of image that City needs to portray. We can do better.

Better, as in a new truck stop along the East entrance to town? (sorry about that) : - )

Posted by: Bellah Nov 11 2011, 04:36 PM

QUOTE(southsiderMMX @ Nov 11 2011, 02:59 PM)

First of it isn't actually "in town" from a technical sense. It is just outside of the City limits. Most importantly, think of the towns in the area that have these type of establishments. When I think of them, my first reaction is I want no more in common with those towns than we already have. It is not the type of image we want to project, and the type of image that City needs to portray. We can do better.

So, a mile or so out side of "town limits"? Any business that close would still have an financial benefit on the surrounding area (hotels, restaurants, gas stations, ect).

What image exactly does the City need to project? Who gets to decide? Do you believe that City has some untainted image and hasn't already been compared to those other towns (even though they have the "these establishments" and we don't)? Of course, a more "family" oriented business could be preferred, but again, business is business and a tax asset and income generating for our area. I guess I don't see why it is fair to deny a legal business because we just don't like the "image" it will portray.

Sex sells. Is it good, moral, or "right"? Probably not, depending on the circumstances. but if it pays for all those parks, police, fireman, schools, and resources a community uses then so be it.

Posted by: southsiderMMX Nov 11 2011, 06:13 PM

QUOTE(southyards @ Nov 11 2011, 04:35 PM)

Better, as in a new truck stop along the East entrance to town? (sorry about that) : - )

A truck stop is loads better than a strip club.

Posted by: southsiderMMX Nov 11 2011, 06:15 PM

QUOTE(Bellah @ Nov 11 2011, 04:36 PM)

So, a mile or so out side of "town limits"? Any business that close would still have an financial benefit on the surrounding area (hotels, restaurants, gas stations, ect).

What image exactly does the City need to project? Who gets to decide? Do you believe that City has some untainted image and hasn't already been compared to those other towns (even though they have the "these establishments" and we don't)? Of course, a more "family" oriented business could be preferred, but again, business is business and a tax asset and income generating for our area. I guess I don't see why it is fair to deny a legal business because we just don't like the "image" it will portray.

Sex sells. Is it good, moral, or "right"? Probably not, depending on the circumstances. but if it pays for all those parks, police, fireman, schools, and resources a community uses then so be it.

I don't believe the City has worried enough about its image, and that is our whole problem. We have sold ourselves out for the easy dollar instead of making an effort to bring real jobs here. And this isn't going to help our parks, police, and fire. Those dollars will go to the county still.

I'm not interested in furthering the perception of being little Gary anymore. Hopefully the community agrees with me and speaks up.

Posted by: Upper Penn Nov 11 2011, 08:31 PM

Owners on the land based on county assessor office

http://beacon.schneidercorp.com/Application.aspx?AppID=205&LayerID=2736&PageTypeID=4&PageID=1531&KeyValue=460516351002000046

Posted by: taxthedeer Nov 12 2011, 01:43 AM

QUOTE(Upper Penn @ Nov 11 2011, 08:31 PM)

Owners on the land based on county assessor office
http://beacon.schneidercorp.com/Application.aspx?AppID=205&LayerID=2736&PageTypeID=4&PageID=1531&KeyValue=460516351002000046

Appears to be owned by a couple of people trying to sell off (and make some really heavy coin) from their parents inheritance.

QUOTE(MCRogers1974 @ Nov 11 2011, 03:04 PM)

I believe that area is not serviced by sewers. I wonder if a septic system can handle the amount of people who would go to that business.

No city water or sewer means patrons will be enjoying watered down drinks mixed with contaminated leachate coming directly across the highway from the Deercroft landfill.

The establlishment would fall under the jusridiction of the La Porte county sheriffs department and Coolspring fire department. How would semi's coming off/back onto I-94 be able to ingress and egress the property? Is this property even suitable to handle semi traffic? Is 4.6 acres enough land to handle semi parking?

Posted by: taxthedeer Nov 12 2011, 04:28 AM

QUOTE(Bellah @ Nov 11 2011, 04:36 PM)

So, a mile or so out side of "town limits"? Any business that close would still have an financial benefit on the surrounding area (hotels, restaurants, gas stations, ect).

These type of establishments are not designed for the casual tourist looking to unwind and spend their disposable income in Michigan City for the weekend. They are designed for the lonely trucker that's been out on the road for six days straight away from his wife looking to get off the innerstate and looking to get a quick and cheap thrill for the night before getting back on the road.

Posted by: ChickenCityRoller Nov 12 2011, 08:05 AM

Hell, we already have a casino, I would consider this a step up.

Posted by: taxthedeer Nov 14 2011, 09:29 AM

I figured the people trying to open this place were from the Chicago area.

http://thenewsdispatch.com/articles/2011/11/13/news/local/doc4ebf39aa536c4387471596.txt

QUOTE

Harbor manager speaks out against proposed strip club

By Tim Moran
Staff Writer
Published: Sunday, November 13, 2011 5:07 PM CST
MICHIGAN CITY — A proposed gentleman’s club is planned by an Illinois businessman on U.S. 421 near Interstate 94, and at least one nearby business manager is not happy about it.

If the La Porte County Board of Zoning Appeals approves a variance request at its Tuesday, Nov. 15, meeting, the property at 3205 N. U.S. 421 will change hands from local owners Jack Sturken and Barbara LaGrossa to John Burys, Alsip, Ill.

Burys has indicated through the meeting’s agenda he plans to operate a “gentleman’s club” at the location once new zoning ordinances designating the area as a B3 zone take effect.

Tom Little, operations manager at nearby Harbor Chevrolet Buick GMC, opposes the request filed Oct. 26. He points out that U.S. 421 gives access to “several” educational and recreational centers in the area, including Purdue University-North Central, Patriot Park and Coolspring Elementary School.

“There are several facilities that road gives access to,” he said. “Many of those involve young kids.”

He says the Harbor dealership has “always tried to keep a clean image,” and a business like that would “put a tarnish on that.”

Vehicles parked in the Harbor parking lot also could be at risk, Little claims, because the proposed “adult cabaret,” as it is referred to in Burys’ petition, is in “baseball throwing distance.”

According to the petition, Burys and Phoenix Ventures LLC also request to be “allowed signage that will be permitted in the future B3 zones.”

But Little says having a place like that could lead to safety issues.

“The mixing of alcohol and excitement can lead to negative results,” he said. “If you look at where other similar type businesses are, we could experience more crime because of it.”

Little says at least two Harbor representatives will attend Tuesday’s meeting, which is at 6 p.m. at La Porte County Complex, to speak against the variance proposal.

Repeated attempts to reach Burys were unsuccessful.

Posted by: southsiderMMX Nov 14 2011, 12:49 PM

On line petition against the Club.

http://petitionbureau.org/save421

Posted by: Ang Nov 14 2011, 06:37 PM

I'm sorry, but I have to agree with Bellah.

Do you people think Lake Station is a bad town with a tarnished image? Um, well they have a strip club that's been there for a long time, and it's only a couple miles from an elemantary school.

Clubs operate at night, schools during the day. By the time those kids get out of the school, the club employees are just waking up, and when they get to work, the kids should be in bed.

As for a club hurting the image of a truck stop????? I would think that it would improve business for the truck stop.

Michigan City has a bad image of drug dealers, gang bangers, and child killers. That was created by the people who in live in the town, not the people who open businesses in the town. I think all this controversy is ridiculous. Just let the folks have the club....Geeeze

It's not like they want to open it downtown by all the shopping. Hell, half the people in town won't even know it's there. Seriously, how often do you go south of 94?

Oh, and to my knowledge (I could be wrong), Gary doesn't have a Gentleman's club, but they do have drug dealers, gang bangers, and child killers. So again, it's not the business that tarnishes the town, it's the people. And instead of worrying about a Gentleman's club on the OUTSKIRTS of town, Cityzens should be concentrating on the drugs and violence that are going on within city limits.

Posted by: southsiderMMX Nov 14 2011, 07:09 PM

Gary has at least one strip club. And as to the last sentence, the things you speak of are not mutually exclusive. I want to see more effort put into eradicating drugs and violence AND I don't want a strip club here.

Somehow I don't think businesses will be lining up to bring jobs to a town with prisons, casinos, garbage dumps, malls and strip clubs. That is my number one concern here.

Posted by: MC Born & Raised Nov 14 2011, 08:27 PM

Put me in the "let 'em dance" category. It's just a strip club, guys. Bascially, just a bar with semi-naked women doing their thing. This is pretty far down on my list of things to deal with in MC, if it even makes the list at all.

Posted by: Bellah Nov 14 2011, 09:11 PM

Thanks for being able to say what I was trying to say so clearly, Ang! The issue seems to be with this club is another one of those "not in my backyard" campaigns. This club will not nearly attract the negative attention that people try to put on it. Simply put, that if it is run on the up and up it WILL be a benefit to some of the businesses in the community, create income for certain folks, (who might very well be living of the back of us taxpayers without the job) and offer some people (not just truckers, folks!) that would maybe not stop in our "little slice of heaven", a motivation to do so and bring their cash with them!

So, the argument about the school, the parks, blah, blah, blah, being "right there", GET OVER IT PEOPLE! I work across areas in Lake, Porter and LaPorte County everyday and see more dangerous, suggestive, negative, and "unmoral" things take place right across from schools, parks, community areas, and so forth then a strip club. The basic issue here is that some people dont agree with the premise of the business, simply put. It is unfortunate, again, that if ANYONE is willing to invest in our area (city, county, whatever it may be) then we should not be fighting against them, but with them.

Glad to know I have some support, I am sure that it wont be enough, and they wonder why we cant seem to get business to come here?

my thoughts,
Bellah

QUOTE(Ang @ Nov 14 2011, 06:37 PM)

I'm sorry, but I have to agree with Bellah.

Do you people think Lake Station is a bad town with a tarnished image? Um, well they have a strip club that's been there for a long time, and it's only a couple miles from an elemantary school.

Clubs operate at night, schools during the day. By the time those kids get out of the school, the club employees are just waking up, and when they get to work, the kids should be in bed.

As for a club hurting the image of a truck stop????? I would think that it would improve business for the truck stop.

Michigan City has a bad image of drug dealers, gang bangers, and child killers. That was created by the people who in live in the town, not the people who open businesses in the town. I think all this controversy is ridiculous. Just let the folks have the club....Geeeze

It's not like they want to open it downtown by all the shopping. Hell, half the people in town won't even know it's there. Seriously, how often do you go south of 94?

Oh, and to my knowledge (I could be wrong), Gary doesn't have a Gentleman's club, but they do have drug dealers, gang bangers, and child killers. So again, it's not the business that tarnishes the town, it's the people. And instead of worrying about a Gentleman's club on the OUTSKIRTS of town, Cityzens should be concentrating on the drugs and violence that are going on within city limits.

Posted by: Ang Nov 15 2011, 09:36 AM

Bing! That's the sound of a nail being hit on the head, Bellah

Businesses don't want to come here not because of what we do have already, but because when people DO want to come, the town folks are against it. I am thinking about the last 5 years or so and many opportunities come to mind that were shot down. Those opportunities went somewhere else and are successful and great for the economy in the communities where they ended up.

This is one of the things that frustrates me about Michigan City. People cry about the town yet are reluctant to let anyone in. Ya never know, the guy who owns a great big factory who is looking for a place to move it to might enjoy going to Gentleman's clubs and decide to come to City because they have one.

Posted by: southsiderMMX Nov 15 2011, 11:23 AM

QUOTE(Bellah @ Nov 14 2011, 09:11 PM)

Thanks for being able to say what I was trying to say so clearly, Ang! The issue seems to be with this club is another one of those "not in my backyard" campaigns. This club will not nearly attract the negative attention that people try to put on it. Simply put, that if it is run on the up and up it WILL be a benefit to some of the businesses in the community, create income for certain folks, (who might very well be living of the back of us taxpayers without the job) and offer some people (not just truckers, folks!) that would maybe not stop in our "little slice of heaven", a motivation to do so and bring their cash with them!

So, the argument about the school, the parks, blah, blah, blah, being "right there", GET OVER IT PEOPLE! I work across areas in Lake, Porter and LaPorte County everyday and see more dangerous, suggestive, negative, and "unmoral" things take place right across from schools, parks, community areas, and so forth then a strip club. The basic issue here is that some people dont agree with the premise of the business, simply put. It is unfortunate, again, that if ANYONE is willing to invest in our area (city, county, whatever it may be) then we should not be fighting against them, but with them.

Glad to know I have some support, I am sure that it wont be enough, and they wonder why we cant seem to get business to come here?

my thoughts,
Bellah

I'm not trying to be the morality police at all. If people want to go to these places, have at it. For my two cents, I believe any economic benefits will be more than ate up by things like additional police officers, and people who avoid the area due to the perception of the businesses we have here painting the wrong picture about our community.

And just because there are other problems in the community, doesn't mean we should quit caring about what new comes in here. I would rather have no investment, than one that will be a net detriment to our area, and I believe this place will be exactly that. The reason we are attracting places like strip clubs instead of real professional jobs is because of the perceptions we have of ourselves. We need to believe we are better than this before anyone else will.

Posted by: Tim Nov 15 2011, 04:10 PM

I hate these places, but on the bright side a strip club could inspire some of MC'S larger wives to diet!

Posted by: MC Born & Raised Nov 15 2011, 04:36 PM

QUOTE(southsiderMMX @ Nov 15 2011, 11:23 AM)

I'm not trying to be the morality police at all. If people want to go to these places, have at it. For my two cents, I believe any economic benefits will be more than ate up by things like additional police officers, and people who avoid the area due to the perception of the businesses we have here painting the wrong picture about our community.

And just because there are other problems in the community, doesn't mean we should quit caring about what new comes in here. I would rather have no investment, than one that will be a net detriment to our area, and I believe this place will be exactly that. The reason we are attracting places like strip clubs instead of real professional jobs is because of the perceptions we have of ourselves. We need to believe we are better than this before anyone else will.

Dude, additional police officers? LOL ... what is it that you think goes on there? Clubs like that handle their own security and I'm having a hard time believing additional officers will be needed. By that logic, we should shut down Reilly's, right? All kinds of trouble over there. Also, why isn't anyone kicking up any fuss over the Love Boutique or whatever on 20 (next to Dino's). I believe at one time there were "dancers" there, too. Has that been the ruin of MC?

And painting the wrong picture about our community? Well, what are we, man? An industrious place? No. A place for professionals? Not so much. A place where tourists come to spend their leisure time/dollars? Well, that seems to be the hope, right? We have a casino and more bars than I care to count, so what's another one that features nude dancing? I don't know. I just don't understand the uproar here.

Seems like another perfect example of the C.A.V.E. theory.

Posted by: southsiderMMX Nov 15 2011, 07:29 PM

QUOTE(MC Born & Raised @ Nov 15 2011, 04:36 PM)

Dude, additional police officers? LOL ... what is it that you think goes on there? Clubs like that handle their own security and I'm having a hard time believing additional officers will be needed. By that logic, we should shut down Reilly's, right? All kinds of trouble over there. Also, why isn't anyone kicking up any fuss over the Love Boutique or whatever on 20 (next to Dino's). I believe at one time there were "dancers" there, too. Has that been the ruin of MC?

And painting the wrong picture about our community? Well, what are we, man? An industrious place? No. A place for professionals? Not so much. A place where tourists come to spend their leisure time/dollars? Well, that seems to be the hope, right? We have a casino and more bars than I care to count, so what's another one that features nude dancing? I don't know. I just don't understand the uproar here.

Seems like another perfect example of the C.A.V.E. theory.

Heck, with all of the problems that have happened at Reilly's, I won't be sad if it shuts down, that's for sure. I know this City has allowed things that don't make sense in the past, but that shouldn't justify making the same mistakes again. We have got to present ourselves as having higher standards if we want to transition from being a tourist town at best, and trying to make ourselves as a final destination, instead of some sort of a mini-Vegas. City is better than that. It sounds bad, but I do wish we put as much effort into attracting good employment, instead of denying stuff like this. No doubt we have failed there, but does anything think a place like Chesterton or Valpo would allow this? If we aspire to be that type of a community, we need to start modeling the ways the operate.

Posted by: mc46360 Nov 16 2011, 12:04 AM

QUOTE(Ang @ Nov 15 2011, 09:36 AM)

Bing! That's the sound of a nail being hit on the head, Bellah

Businesses don't want to come here not because of what we do have already, but because when people DO want to come, the town folks are against it. I am thinking about the last 5 years or so and many opportunities come to mind that were shot down. Those opportunities went somewhere else and are successful and great for the economy in the communities where they ended up.

This is one of the things that frustrates me about Michigan City. People cry about the town yet are reluctant to let anyone in. Ya never know, the guy who owns a great big factory who is looking for a place to move it to might enjoy going to Gentleman's clubs and decide to come to City because they have one.

Exactly!!! couldn't have said it better myself, just another example of the Citizens Against Virtually Everything. Everybody gets so worked up over everything around this area, look at all the dumb excuses people were making up not to have the new truck stop, geesh people, relax!!!!

Posted by: southsiderMMX Nov 16 2011, 08:11 AM

QUOTE(mc46360 @ Nov 16 2011, 12:04 AM)

Exactly!!! couldn't have said it better myself, just another example of the Citizens Against Virtually Everything. Everybody gets so worked up over everything around this area, look at all the dumb excuses people were making up not to have the new truck stop, geesh people, relax!!!!

It has nothing to do with being against "everything". It has everything with trying to get some standards in this town. You want to know why strip clubs and garbage dumps want to move here? Because too many people think we deserve them. Do you think Chesterton or Valpo would have welcomed Phoenix with open arms? If we really want to emulate these towns and move forward, we can't sell ourselves out for substandard reasons.

The problem is the powers that be are failing us right now. With the employer situation in Illinois right now, we should be on the phone BEGGING companies to come to Michigan City. With the tax advantages and labor cost differences, it should be a slam dunk. We should be hitting employers the same way we hit tourists. There are plenty of ads to vacation here, but I have never seen one to move here and bring your business here.

It is because of the failing in economic development, that establishments like this one get taken seriously.

Posted by: MCRogers1974 Nov 16 2011, 08:17 AM

QUOTE(southsiderMMX @ Nov 16 2011, 08:11 AM)

It has nothing to do with being against "everything". It has everything with trying to get some standards in this town. You want to know why strip clubs and garbage dumps want to move here? Because too many people think we deserve them. Do you think Chesterton or Valpo would have welcomed Phoenix with open arms? If we really want to emulate these towns and move forward, we can't sell ourselves out for substandard reasons.

The problem is the powers that be are failing us right now. With the employer situation in Illinois right now, we should be on the phone BEGGING companies to come to Michigan City. With the tax advantages and labor cost differences, it should be a slam dunk. We should be hitting employers the same way we hit tourists. There are plenty of ads to vacation here, but I have never seen one to move here and bring your business here.

It is because of the failing in economic development, that establishments like this one get taken seriously.

Obtaining good local jobs will cure many of the evils MC faces. And I mean high skilled jobs, not these low tech third world jobs which were around here in the middle of the last century. The unskilled labor force cannot compete with places like China, Viet Nam, etc.

Posted by: Ang Nov 16 2011, 09:49 AM

QUOTE(southsiderMMX @ Nov 16 2011, 08:11 AM)

It has nothing to do with being against "everything". It has everything with trying to get some standards in this town. You want to know why strip clubs and garbage dumps want to move here? Because too many people think we deserve them. Do you think Chesterton or Valpo would have welcomed Phoenix with open arms? If we really want to emulate these towns and move forward, we can't sell ourselves out for substandard reasons.

The problem is the powers that be are failing us right now. With the employer situation in Illinois right now, we should be on the phone BEGGING companies to come to Michigan City. With the tax advantages and labor cost differences, it should be a slam dunk. We should be hitting employers the same way we hit tourists. There are plenty of ads to vacation here, but I have never seen one to move here and bring your business here.

It is because of the failing in economic development, that establishments like this one get taken seriously.

You talk about Chesterton and Valpo and want City to be more like those towns, but you need to realize that the people who live in those communities have a higher income level than most people who live in City. Those communities can afford to be upscale because the people who live there are wealthier. I realize we have our share of rich people too, but our middle class is a lot smaller than Chesterton or Valpo. And you can argue that the middle class is smaller because all City has is tourism and retail, but even when there was manufacturing, those other communities were more affluent--they always have been. City will never be like Valpo, and Chesterton is really too small of a community to compare--seriously, have you been there lately? All of their fast food places are within a couple block radius.

I'm sure the new Mayor has all sorts of plans to improve the quality of Michigan City. As a life long resident and former City employee he has a vested interest besides just being the Mayor and I hope that he will do something to attract more employment opportunities.

Having said all that, I still don't understand what the hype is about a club on the edge of town. It's not a house of ill repute, it's just a place to drink and watch half naked women dance. If you don't like that kind of establishment, don't go there. MC Born mentioned that place on 20 across from the mall. Um, I'd say that place is more like a house of ill repute and no one complained when that went in. It sorta snuck under the radar and no one's really noticed.

Posted by: southsiderMMX Nov 16 2011, 10:06 AM

Again, past failures by administrations are not a valid reason for making more mistakes. And for the record, Meer did vote in the CBTL poll against this facility.

The reason we aren't as good as surrounding communities is because we don't believe we are that good. MCs worst enemy is its own citizens. The reason we don't have a middle class in this town is two fold. The first again is a complete failure by economic development to recruit and attracts local businesses. The second is the type of businesses we tend to accept. I was fine with the truck stop. The garbage transfer station and strip club? No thanks. If we are going to build into middle class town again, it isn't going to be on the backs of naked girls. In fact quite the opposite.

Posted by: Tim Nov 16 2011, 04:04 PM

QUOTE(southsiderMMX @ Nov 16 2011, 10:06 AM)

Again, past failures by administrations are not a valid reason for making more mistakes. And for the record, Meer did vote in the CBTL poll against this facility.

The reason we aren't as good as surrounding communities is because we don't believe we are that good. MCs worst enemy is its own citizens. The reason we don't have a middle class in this town is two fold. The first again is a complete failure by economic development to recruit and attracts local businesses. The second is the type of businesses we tend to accept. I was fine with the truck stop. The garbage transfer station and strip club? No thanks. If we are going to build into middle class town again, it isn't going to be on the backs of naked girls. In fact quite the opposite.

Well put.

Posted by: mcstumper Nov 16 2011, 09:44 PM

Since, as I understand it from friends of acquaintances of people I may have run into on the street once or twice, most strippers only enter the profession to pay for college, doesn't logic therefore follow that a strip club in Michigan City would increase the overall number of college educated individuals in the city, thereby increasing our potential middle class?

Posted by: Tim Nov 16 2011, 09:47 PM

QUOTE(mcstumper @ Nov 16 2011, 09:44 PM)

Since, as I understand it from friends of acquaintances of people I may have run into on the street once or twice, most strippers only enter the profession to pay for college, doesn't logic therefore follow that a strip club in Michigan City would increase the overall number of college educated individuals in the city, thereby increasing our potential middle class?

"most strippers only enter the profession to pay for college"

You cannot be serious.

Posted by: southsiderMMX Nov 17 2011, 08:21 AM

http://thenewsdispatch.com/articles/2011/11/17/news/local/doc4ebf39aa536c4387471596.txt

QUOTE

Harbor manager speaks out against proposed strip club

By Tim Moran
Staff Writer
Published: Sunday, November 13, 2011 5:07 PM CST
MICHIGAN CITY — A proposed gentleman’s club is planned by an Illinois businessman on U.S. 421 near Interstate 94, and at least one nearby business manager is not happy about it.

If the La Porte County Board of Zoning Appeals approves a variance request at its Tuesday, Nov. 15, meeting, the property at 3205 N. U.S. 421 will change hands from local owners Jack Sturken and Barbara LaGrossa to John Burys, Alsip, Ill.

Burys has indicated through the meeting’s agenda he plans to operate a “gentleman’s club” at the location once new zoning ordinances designating the area as a B3 zone take effect.

Tom Little, operations manager at nearby Harbor Chevrolet Buick GMC, opposes the request filed Oct. 26. He points out that U.S. 421 gives access to “several” educational and recreational centers in the area, including Purdue University-North Central, Patriot Park and Coolspring Elementary School.

*
“There are several facilities that road gives access to,” he said. “Many of those involve young kids.”

He says the Harbor dealership has “always tried to keep a clean image,” and a business like that would “put a tarnish on that.”

Vehicles parked in the Harbor parking lot also could be at risk, Little claims, because the proposed “adult cabaret,” as it is referred to in Burys’ petition, is in “baseball throwing distance.”

According to the petition, Burys and Phoenix Ventures LLC also request to be “allowed signage that will be permitted in the future B3 zones.”

But Little says having a place like that could lead to safety issues.

“The mixing of alcohol and excitement can lead to negative results,” he said. “If you look at where other similar type businesses are, we could experience more crime because of it.”

Little says at least two Harbor representatives will attend Tuesday’s meeting, which is at 6 p.m. at La Porte County Complex, to speak against the variance proposal.

Repeated attempts to reach Burys were unsuccessful.

Posted by: southsiderMMX Nov 17 2011, 08:23 AM

http://thenewsdispatch.com/articles/2011/11/17/news/local/doc4ec1d3f0eee28431275817.txt

QUOTE

Opposition organizes in response to gentlemen's club

By Tim Moran
Staff Writer
Published: Tuesday, November 15, 2011 5:08 PM CST
LA PORTE — Tonight’s meeting of the La Porte County Board of Zoning Appeals may be a little more crowded than usual.

That’s because a petition has been circulating online entitled “Stop the proposed gentlemen’s club on (U.S.) 421 in Michigan City, IN.” The effort garnered more than 100 signatures in its first 18 hours of existence.

The petition’s opposition refers to a variance on the agenda for tonight’s La Porte BZA meeting that if approved, would allow John Burys and Phoenix Ventures, LLC to open and operate a “gentlemen’s club” at 3205 N. U.S. Highway 421 in Coolspring Township. Repeated attempts to contact Burys have been unsuccessful.

John Avila, a Michigan City dentist, is one of the names appearing on the petition against the proposed variance. Avila says the “adult cabaret” would be “a bad way to present Michigan City to visitors and passer-bys.”

*
“It could encourage people to pass us by and go somewhere else,” he said.

Although Avila was not the author of the petition, which can be found on petitionbureau.org, he is the creator of a Facebook event which has invited more than 100 people to attend tonight’s BZA meeting.

“I am urging a huge turnout to demonstrate opposition to issuing the variance,” the event’s information reads.

Avila says the proposed business’ harm is not limited to diverting would-be visitors.

“It is bad socially as well,” he said. “It teaches girls to relate to males that way, and boys to objectify women.”

After creating the “event,” Avila said he has heard two “joking” responses for the variance, but “most have been against it.”

In addition to the signatures, the Michigan City Area Schools board of education has issued a letter against the measure compiled by board secretary Bill Greene.

Tom Little, operations manager for Harbor Chevrolet Buick GMC, a car dealership in close proximity to the proposed site, has also voiced his opposition.

The La Porte County BZA will meet tonight at 6 p.m. at the La Porte County Complex.

Posted by: southsiderMMX Nov 17 2011, 08:25 AM

http://thenewsdispatch.com/articles/2011/11/17/news/local/doc4ec33ae131525542422034.txt

QUOTE

Zoning board denies variance for proposed 'gentlemen's club'

By Brianne Eichman
Staff writer
Published: Wednesday, November 16, 2011 5:08 PM CST
La PORTE — The La Porte County Board of Zoning Appeals voted unanimously to deny a variance request for a "gentleman's club" at its meeting on Tuesday, mainly due to the location and the safety of the surrounding community.

The variance request would have allowed the property at 3205 N. U.S. 421 in Michigan City to transfer from local owners Jack Sturken and Barbara LaGrossa to businessman John Burys.

Burys said he chose the location out of nearly 40 locations he researched, but the board believed the location would be injurious to the public health and safety.

The reason was that several incidents and collisions have occured at the intersection of 300 North and U.S. 421. Also, the board said they had to consider Coolspring Elementary School, Purdue University North Central, Patriot Park and Reins of Life, all of which are within fairly close proximity to the proposed location.

*
Many land owners, parents of school children and business owners approached the board at the meeting with their request to deny the petition.

Some who spoke said they did not disapprove of the business except for the location, and they would ask Burys to seek another location if he wanted to have the business. Others said they disapproved of the business entirely, and they wanted to see positive businesses in the area which would help build the integrity of the community.

Also mentioned was the fact that Burys was proposing the club to be built at what many considered to be the "gateway" of Michigan City. Many people said they feared this would drive businesses away.

Dwayne Hogan, president board of zoning appeals, applauded concerned individuals who came forward to speak at the meeting and said their voices were heard.

"When we get tough issues in front of us as a family, I think the family came together as a result of what's in this room by evidence of what's here in this room this evening," said Hogan.

Posted by: Ang Nov 17 2011, 06:00 PM

My sister worked in a Gentleman's club. She used the money she made to pay for school and buy things she would not otherwise have been able to afford. She met & married a wonderful man, has two beautiful children, lives in a $400K house and drives a Lexus. She was not required to have sex with men while she danced, and as a matter of fact, there were body guards to protect her from sleazy men. She danced. That was all. There was nothing dirty about what she did and she ended up becoming a very successful person.

Posted by: Tim Nov 17 2011, 07:04 PM

QUOTE(Ang @ Nov 17 2011, 06:00 PM)

My sister worked in a Gentleman's club. She used the money she made to pay for school and buy things she would not otherwise have been able to afford. She met & married a wonderful man, has two beautiful children, lives in a $400K house and drives a Lexus. She was not required to have sex with men while she danced, and as a matter of fact, there were body guards to protect her from sleazy men. She danced. That was all. There was nothing dirty about what she did and she ended up becoming a very successful person.

Was she a stripper?

Posted by: southsiderMMX Nov 18 2011, 10:50 AM

Getting past the unwinnable argument here, I do want to say one thing... THIS proves what YOUR participation does count in the community. The reason this proposal was defeated is because a lot of people got upset and did something about it. Whether it was attending the meeting, calling officials, or signing the petition, people stepped to the plate and made their voices heard.

So next time a person tells you that it doesn't matter what they think in Michigan City, point to this sequence of events, and tell them that if people care, things get done.

Now we as Cityzens have a lot of other things to get upset about to move our community forward.

Posted by: taxthedeer Jan 10 2012, 12:17 PM

It appears now that Mr. Burys is trying to buy another piece of land for the same type of business off of U.S. 35 near the I-94 exit 40 in addition to still having his suit filed to start up at U.S. 421. Sounds like he wants to have two clubs in La Porte county.

Posted by: taxthedeer Jan 13 2012, 06:30 PM

http://thenewsdispatch.com/articles/2012/01/13/news/local/doc4f10828310b83043737095.txt

QUOTE

Second site pursued for gentleman's club

By Matt Fritz
For The News-Dispatch

Published: Friday, January 13, 2012 5:08 PM CST

LA PORTE — A Chicago-based businessman trying to open a gentlemen’s club in Michigan City now hopes to get a variance for one in Springfield Township.

John Burys of Phoenix Enterprises America has filed a petition for a variance to operate a gentlemen’s club at 5906 N. U.S. 35 in Springfield Township. The petition was filed along with Richard Loniewski and Shirley St. Arnaud.

The petition will be heard and determined at a public hearing at 6 p.m. Jan. 17 in the County Complex assembly room (first floor lobby). Interested people may attend and remonstrate. Any written remonstrances may be filed prior to and up to the time of the hearing.

The La Porte County Board of Zoning Appeals unanimously voted Nov. 15 to deny Burys’ variance request for a gentleman’s club at 3205 N. U.S. 421. Board members referenced several incidents and collisions at County Road 300N and U.S. 421. Also, board members said they had to consider Coolspring Elementary School, Purdue University-North Central, Patriot Park and Reins of Life, all of which are within fairly close proximity to the location.

Later, Burys filed a complaint against La Porte County and the La Porte County Board of Zoning Appeals for denying the request.

The plaintiffs said the variance denial “purports to totally exclude adult businesses from any location in the jurisdiction.” They allege the denial went against First Amendment rights that protect expression.

“This legislation prohibits the establishment or operation of any commercial venture meeting the definition of ‘adult entertainment’ which ultimately imposes restrictions and prohibitions on First Amendment protected expression,” according to the complaint.

Burys’ attorney, David Ambers, said his client is still pursuing his federal lawsuit against the county, but since county officials told him he might get approval if he found a better location for the gentlemen’s club, he is pursuing a variance on the second property as well to cover his bases.

Posted by: mcstumper Jan 13 2012, 09:00 PM

If that's as close as Mr. Burys comes to Michigan City, I would be ok with it.

Posted by: taxthedeer Jan 13 2012, 09:57 PM

I don't see how anybody can stop this one. This location seems to meet all the criteria needed to open an establishment such as this. It's going to be very near the newly proposed Michigan Boulevard Truck stop. Just don't expect me to ever patronize the place.

Posted by: Tim Jan 14 2012, 05:23 AM

Where is this exactly?

Posted by: southsiderMMX Jan 14 2012, 10:06 AM

QUOTE(Tim @ Jan 14 2012, 05:23 AM)

Where is this exactly?

Just past where 35 breaks away from 20 on the extreme east end of town. Looks to be just past where Serenity Springs is now.

Posted by: bandaid19 Jan 14 2012, 11:49 AM

Exactly where people who opposed the truck stop were worried that "unsavory businesses" would crop up. It almost makes me wonder if the first location was a ruse.

It's like asking for $5, getting turned down, and asking for $1 instead. People in this area have already show their "weakness" by not being able to oppose the truck stop, so maybe this will fly through.

Hearing's in a week.. guess we'll see then.

Posted by: southyards Jan 14 2012, 02:59 PM

QUOTE(southsiderMMX @ Nov 11 2011, 06:13 PM)

A truck stop is loads better than a strip club.

“Adult” stores and truck stops kinda go together. Case in point. . . . The Lion’s Den Adult Superstore (built in 2001), across the street from the large truck stop at the Sawyer, MI exit of I-94. If an “adult” store does go through near Michigan City, one is not obligated to patronize it. (Just like patronizing the truck stop is optional). Unfortunately, I can’t see any way that these establishments would do anything but make a bad traffic situation in that area worse than it alreasy is. . . . .

Posted by: southyards Jan 14 2012, 03:01 PM

QUOTE(southyards @ Jan 14 2012, 02:59 PM)

“Adult” stores and truck stops kinda go together. Case in point. . . . The Lion’s Den Adult Superstore (built in 2001), across the street from the large truck stop at the Sawyer, MI exit of I-94. If an “adult” store does go through near Michigan City, one is not obligated to patronize it. (Just like patronizing the truck stop is optional). Unfortunately, I can’t see any way that these establishments would do anything but make a bad traffic situation in that area worse than it alreasy is. . . . .

Ooops. Should read "than it ALREADY is". Sorry about that. . . .

Posted by: southsiderMMX Jan 14 2012, 04:43 PM

QUOTE(bandaid19 @ Jan 14 2012, 11:49 AM)

Exactly where people who opposed the truck stop were worried that "unsavory businesses" would crop up. It almost makes me wonder if the first location was a ruse.

It's like asking for $5, getting turned down, and asking for $1 instead. People in this area have already show their "weakness" by not being able to oppose the truck stop, so maybe this will fly through.

Hearing's in a week.. guess we'll see then.

Unfortunately this is in the county so City has no say, again.

Posted by: kharris Jan 15 2012, 12:11 PM

QUOTE(southsiderMMX @ Jan 14 2012, 04:43 PM)

Unfortunately this is in the county so City has no say, again.

The location may be in the county (just like the last proposed location) but I believe it is close enough to city limits that I would hope our city leaders would say something in an attempt to discourage it.

Posted by: taxthedeer Jan 15 2012, 02:22 PM

QUOTE(kharris @ Jan 15 2012, 12:11 PM)

The location may be in the county (just like the last proposed location) but I believe it is close enough to city limits that I would hope our city leaders would say something in an attempt to discourage it.

They would most likely be on well and septic as opposed to city water and sewer, that would be to only reason I could think of for the BZA in denying this location.

Posted by: bandaid19 Jan 15 2012, 03:00 PM

QUOTE(taxthedeer @ Jan 15 2012, 02:22 PM)

They would most likely be on well and septic as opposed to city water and sewer, that would be to only reason I could think of for the BZA in denying this location.

Go do some research on extending city water to Springfield Township, and see who's on the "for" side of the issue. It's been an interesting topic out here.

Posted by: MCRogers1974 Jan 16 2012, 05:43 AM

QUOTE(taxthedeer @ Jan 15 2012, 02:22 PM)

They would most likely be on well and septic as opposed to city water and sewer, that would be to only reason I could think of for the BZA in denying this location.

I believe there is already a sewer out there. The sewer which was put in to service Indian Springs subdivision.

Posted by: taxthedeer Jan 16 2012, 09:00 AM

QUOTE(kharris @ Jan 15 2012, 12:11 PM)

The location may be in the county (just like the last proposed location) but I believe it is close enough to city limits that I would hope our city leaders would say something in an attempt to discourage it.

I don't think a bunch of people saying "We don't like strip clubs" is going to be enough to stop this from going in.

Posted by: kharris Jan 16 2012, 09:07 AM

QUOTE(taxthedeer @ Jan 16 2012, 09:00 AM)

I don't think a bunch of people saying "We don't like strip clubs" is going to be enough to stop this from going in.

I don't believe it will either ... in fact I believe the County BZA will have to approve at some time or another, wheter in this location or another. I just think it would be a nice "gesture" so to speak, to know/hear our city's leaders expressing their disapproval ... provided they do disapprove.

Posted by: southsiderMMX Jan 17 2012, 10:01 AM

QUOTE(kharris @ Jan 16 2012, 09:07 AM)

I don't believe it will either ... in fact I believe the County BZA will have to approve at some time or another, wheter in this location or another. I just think it would be a nice "gesture" so to speak, to know/hear our city's leaders expressing their disapproval ... provided they do disapprove.

It would be very nice, but in many cases I wouldn't hold my breath. Honestly they are probably scared of getting sued,

Posted by: kharris Jan 17 2012, 12:00 PM

QUOTE(southsiderMMX @ Jan 17 2012, 10:01 AM)

It would be very nice, but in many cases I wouldn't hold my breath. Honestly they are probably scared of getting sued,

I would certainly agree

Posted by: southsiderMMX Jan 17 2012, 02:23 PM

The new locale is on the BZA agenda for tonight.

http://www.laportecounty.org/departments/planning/Zoning%20Agendas/2012/BZAJAN.pdf

Posted by: taxthedeer Jan 17 2012, 03:57 PM

I can't find anything preventing this from being denied at this location.

Skip to page 10 to see all the regulations for operating this type of business:

http://www.lslplanning.com/documents/14UseRegulations.pdf

QUOTE

Section 14.09 Entertainment and Recreation
The following requirements shall be complied with for the specified use:
(a) Adult Entertainment Business
(1) In the development and execution of this section, it is understood and has been well documented in studies conducted across the country that there are certain uses which, because of their nature, have serious objectionable operations characteristics that may produce deleterious effects upon adjacent areas, particularly when several of these uses are located in relative proximity to one another in a concentrated area. Special regulations for these uses are necessary to insure that the potential adverse effects will not contribute to the blighting, deteriorating, and/or down grading of the area in which they are located and surrounding neighborhoods. The control or regulation of these uses is for the purpose of preventing their overcrowding in a particular location and requires, instead, their disbursal in appropriate locations to minimize their adverse impact on any specific neighborhood.
(2) The prohibition against the establishment of more than one adult regulated use, within 1,000 feet of another adult use or other incompatible uses, serves to avoid the concentration of such uses; avoids the deleterious effects of blight and devaluation of both business and residential property; and prevents the harmful effect of blight and devaluation of recreation, educational and/or religious uses.
(3) Concern for, and pride in, the orderly planning and development of the neighborhood and area should be encouraged and fostered in those persons who comprise the business and residential segments of that neighborhood and area.
(4) Unless and until approval is obtained, it shall be unlawful to establish any of the following adult regulated use, as defined in article 31.
a. Adult arcade;
b. Adult bookstore or adult video store;
c. Adult cabaret;
d. Adult massage parlor;
e. Adult motel;
f. Adult motion picture theater;
g. Adult theater;
h. Escort agency; or
i. Nudist colony;
Use Regulations Article 14
Zoning Ordinance Page 14-11
j. Nude model studio.
(5) Any adult regulated use/building shall be at least 500 feet from a residential zoning district and at least 1,000 feet from any of the following, except as otherwise provided by item (8) below. Distance limitations shall be measured along a straight line forming the shortest distance between any portion of the subject parcel and parcels zoned residential or occupied by uses specified herein.
a. Another existing adult regulated use;
b. Public, private or parochial school;
c. Library;
d. Park, playground or other recreation facility which admits minors;
e. Day care center or nursery schools;
f. Church, temple or other similar place of worship;
g. Any establishment having a liquor license;
h. Pool or billiard halls;
i. Arcades;
j. Pawn shops;
k. Tattoo parlors;
l. Check cashing services;
m. Hotels, motels or bed and breakfast inns; and
n. Dance clubs catering primarily to teenagers, ice or roller skating rinks, movie theaters and other similar uses which typically cater to teenagers.
(6) The Board of Zoning Appeals may waive the location provision requiring minimum distances between adult regulated uses and those uses identified in item (5) above. Waiver exceptions shall only be granted where all of the following findings are made after a public hearing:
a. The proposed use will not be contrary to the public interest or injurious to nearby properties, and that the spirit and intent of this Ordinance will be observed.
b. The proposed use will not contribute to, create, enlarge and/or encourage a blighted or deteriorated area.
c. All other applicable regulations of this Ordinance will be observed.
d. There is no other reasonable location in the city or county at which the use is suited.
(7) Any adult regulated use/building offering material described in this Ordinance shall comply with the following performance standards:
a. That any display of adult oriented material be shielded from public view either placed behind a counter, or by providing a separately established room which would have restricted access controlled by the owner or employees;
b. That all access to adult orientated material be restricted to persons 18 years of age or older;
c. That signage be posted regarding the restrictions to this type of material; and
d. That the location of the counter or room be limited to an area away from the main entry.
Article 14 Use Regulations
Page 14-12 Zoning Ordinance
(8) Site and building requirements:
a. Building size shall not exceed 5,000 square feet of gross floor area.
b. The building and site shall be designed, constructed and maintained so material such as a display, decoration or sign depicting, describing, or relating to specific sexual activities or specified anatomical areas, as defined in this Ordinance, cannot be observed by pedestrians or motorists on a public right of way or from an adjacent land use. No exterior door or window on the premises shall be kept open at any time while the business is in operation.
c. The use shall be located within a freestanding building. A shared/common wall or shopping center shall not be considered to be a freestanding building.
d. The building shall provide sufficient sound absorbing insulation so noise generated inside the premises shall not be audible anywhere on any adjacent property or public right of way.
e. The Board of Zoning Appeals may require a wall, fence or berm in conjunction with landscaping to provide an appropriate screen in consideration of views from public streets, adjacent properties and surrounding land uses.
f. The hours of operation shall be approved by the Board of Zoning Appeals.
g. Access shall be from a major thoroughfare.
h. Any adult regulated use, which allows customers to remain on the premises while viewing live, filmed or recorded entertainment or while using or consuming the products or services supplied on the premises, shall provide at least one security guard on duty outside the premises. The security guard shall patrol the grounds and parking areas at all times while the business is in operation.

Posted by: southsiderMMX Jan 17 2012, 06:06 PM

Apparently the meeting is SRO again, and it is being shown live on ALCO-97

Posted by: southsiderMMX Jan 17 2012, 06:33 PM

Strip club variance is being tabled until the April 17 meeting. "new information has come to light".

Posted by: southsiderMMX Jan 18 2012, 08:37 AM

http://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/laporte/michigan-city/laporte-co-strip-club-decision-delayed/article_e5b98a12-19b7-55b5-a289-8d32cc24044d.html

QUOTE

LAPORTE | About 200 people turned out for a meeting Tuesday night over a request for a strip club near Michigan City.

The only decision by the LaPorte County Board of Zoning Appeals was not to vote on the proposal and to consider the matter again in 90 days.

Originally, LaPorte attorney Dave Ambers, representing the petitioner, requested a 30-day continuance.

Ambers said he did so after discovering Monday night his client's request for a gentleman's club — although filed under the county's old zoning ordinance — would be entertained under the existing ordinance, which recently took effect.

Ambers said setback and other requirements are different between the two ordinances and more time was needed to do legal research and make any necessary adjustments in the proposal.

"There's a great deal of changes in the new law compared to the old law," Ambers said.

John Burys, a Chicago-area developer, is seeking permission to locate a gentleman's club at 5906 N. U.S. 35, just south of U.S. 20, east of the corporate boundaries of Michigan City.

In November, his request to put up a gentleman's club at U.S. 421 and 300 north, just south of Michigan City, was rejected by the BZA, citing primarily concerns about adding traffic to an already busy intersection.

A federal lawsuit was filed alleging violation of free speech, claiming the zoning laws prohibit such an establishment anywhere in the county

BZA president Paul Zona motioned for a 90-day continuance, saying more than 30 days was needed to examine matters such as environmental questions at the U.S. 35 site and other plans already in the works for that area.

"Other things have come to light. I'd like to see it tabled for at least 90 days so the board has the time to gather its thoughts on everything," Zona said.

The matter was scheduled to come back before the BZA on April 17. Afterward, a petition gathering signatures opposed to such an establishment was being circulated outside the meeting room.

"I don't see any benefit. They call it a gentleman's club. I know what a gentleman is," Larry Pinkerton said.

Read more: http://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/laporte/michigan-city/laporte-co-strip-club-decision-delayed/article_e5b98a12-19b7-55b5-a289-8d32cc24044d.html#ixzz1jowsAWPi

Posted by: southsiderMMX Jan 18 2012, 08:41 AM

http://heraldargus.com/articles/2012/01/17/news/local/doc4f14c6f1b55ec138184999.txt

QUOTE

Gentleman’s club petitioner drops out

By Matt Fritz
Staff writer
1-866-362-2167 Ext. 13887
mfritz@heraldargus.com
Published: Tuesday, January 17, 2012 5:04 PM CST
SPRINGFIELD TOWNSHIP — One of the petitioners for a gentleman’s club in Springfield Township has removed her name from the document.

Attorney David Ambers said petitioner Shirley St. Arnaud has transferred all her interests in the proposed property, which is located between Serenity Springs and the old First National Bank of Valparaiso, to her brother, Richard Loniewski, and a new petition without her name was submitted on Friday.

A Chicago-based businessman John Burys, of Phoenix Enterprises America, has filed a petition for a variance to operate a gentlemen’s club in Springfield Township. The petition was filed along with property owner Richard Loniewski.

The petition will be heard and determined at a public hearing on Jan. 17 in the county complex assembly room (first floor lobby) at 6 p.m.

Interested people may attend and remonstrate.

Any written remonstrances may be filed prior to and up to the time of the hearing.

This is Burys’ second attempt at getting a variance for a gentlemen’s club in La Porte County.

The La Porte County Board of Zoning Appeals voted previously to deny Burys’ variance request for a gentleman’s club at 3205 N. U.S. 421 in Michigan City.

The denial was based on several incidents and collisions at the intersection of CR-300N and U.S. 421. Also, board members said they had to consider Coolspring Elementary School, Purdue University-North Central, Patriot Park and Reins of Life, all of which are within fairly close proximity to the location.

Later, Burys filed a complaint against La Porte County and the La Porte County Board of Zoning Appeals for denying the request.

The plaintiff said the variance denial “purports to totally exclude adult businesses from any location in the jurisdiction.”

The plaintiff alleged the denial went against First Amendment rights that protect expression.

“This legislation prohibits the establishment or operation of any commercial venture meeting the definition of ‘adult entertainment’ which ultimately imposes restrictions and prohibitions on First Amendment protected expression,” according to the complaint.

Burys’ attorney, David Ambers, said his client is still pursuing his federal lawsuit against the county, but, since county officials told him he might get approval if he found a better location for the gentlemen’s club, he is pursuing a variance on the second property as well.

Posted by: southsiderMMX Feb 8 2012, 03:10 PM

http://thenewsdispatch.com/articles/2012/02/08/news/opinion/anvil_chorus/doc4f307e5210b0a778146752.txt

QUOTE

Variance delay is a good move

Published: Tuesday, February 7, 2012 5:06 PM CST
I’m glad the gentleman’s club hearing for rezoning variance has been delayed. Is having our Deputy Prosecuting Attorney, David Ambers, represent Phoenix Enterprises America’s efforts to build a gentleman’s nightclub in our area a conflict of interest? John Burys, of Phoenix Enterprises America, has filed a federal lawsuit against the county for turning down his first zoning request. He claims that excluding “adult businesses” has violated his First Amendment rights. If his lawsuit or variance is granted, what happens if this adult establishment experiences the difficulties that may follow establishments of this type? How can Deputy Prosecutor Ambers represent the citizens of La Porte County against his client? Is this the type of potential problem our City Council and La Porte County Ethics Committee will address?

Leigh Coburn

Michigan City, IN

Posted by: southsiderMMX Feb 27 2012, 02:23 PM

http://thenewsdispatch.com/articles/2012/02/27/news/local/doc4f484bff8beff839690713.txt

QUOTE

Local officials not in favor of 'gentlemen's club' for La Porte County

By Tim Moran
Staff Writer
Published: Saturday, February 25, 2012 5:08 PM CST
LA PORTE COUNTY — With a request about establishing a "Gentlemen's Club" in La Porte County near the Interstate 94 exit for Michigan City to be heard by the La Porte County Board of Zoning Appeals in April, community leaders seem to agree on one thing — they believe the club will not have a positive impact on Michigan City or La Porte County.

"I am not in favor of it," said Michigan City Police Chief Mark Swistek, noting that its opening could lead to an increase in the number of intoxicated drivers and reports of fights in progress.

"Although our department has been unfamiliar in dealing with crime at those establishments — other chiefs have told me the clubs have a tendency to have high calls of disturbances," he said. "That type of entertainment also brings disorderly conduct from time to time."

The chief added that anywhere alcohol is served has the potential to lead to an increase in drunk drivers on the streets.

*
"Our department has taken a firm stance on that so there are always those concerns as well," he said.

But Michigan City police personnel would only be dispatched to the club's location if requested by the La Porte County Sheriff Office, which would have jurisdiction if a crime were to occur on the business' premises or surrounding areas.

"I am not in favor of it," said La Porte County Sheriff Mike Mollenhauer, but added the club's arrival "probably will happen."

"They (the petitioners) seem pretty persistent in getting this through," he said.

If so, Mollenhauer says his office will "keep our eyes and ears open to make sure everything is legal."

The sheriff says he does not anticipate having an officer on hand at all times, but if that became the case, his department would move to have the business shut down.

"If they are serving alcohol, it is their responsibility to make sure no one leaves drunk — and prostitution — that is completely illegal," he said.

After speaking to police personnel in Lake County, which has a number of similar establishments, Mollenhauer says he does not foresee an increase in crime from the opening of the club.

"If it happens, we will continue to enforce the laws and hope the business is run properly," he said.

Being located near the interstate, the likely scenario is that many of the club's patrons will be visitors from out of town, says Derek Bjonback, associated professor of business at Purdue University North Central.

"Additional visitors could bring in new revenue ... but there could be added expenses as well because of traffic and security issues," the professor said.

Since PNC has not formed a study group on the issue, Bjonback says he is unsure of what the balance would be between added revenue and expenses.

"It's hard to tell," he said, adding he was unsure of the "tourism connection" and whether or not the out-of-county visitors would plan multiple activities upon their visit.

Jack Arnett, executive director of the La Porte County Convention and Visitors Bureau, says the club is "not something (the CVB) wants to see happen."

"Our mission is to promote all of the positive events and destinations in La Porte County," he added. "This type of venue does not seem to fit into what would be a good fit in the county."

Two months before petitioners John Burys and Phoenix Ventures, LLC requested a variance for the location at U.S. 20/35, a similar request was made for a location on U.S. 421 just south of the Michigan City border.

In that instance, the BZA voted 5-0 against allowing the establishment — citing "traffic issues" as the reason.

That matter, still in the courts after the petitioners challenged the ruling claiming it went against their First Amendment rights, was a major issue of concern on behalf of board members and administrators of the Michigan City Area Schools system because Coolspring Elementary School is in the vicinity of that proposed location.

While the new location is not in close proximity to any MCAS school (Renaissance Academy is the nearest educational institution), MCAS Superintendent Barbara Eason-Watkins is opposed to allowing it anywhere in the county.

"Even though the new location does not closely border one of our schools, this type of establishment would certainly detract from the positive image that Michigan City is working hard to foster for our community," she said.

That image, Mayor Ron Meer says, places considerable importance on the city's "entrance ways," which include the I-94/U.S. 20/35 corridor and the originally proposed U.S. 421 site.

"I wouldn't want to see it at either location," Meer said. "It goes against our image and things we are trying to address. We have put in a lot of money to improve our entrance ways and we do not want to see this deter from that."

The mayor said similar clubs have at times "brought a different element into communities," pointing out the difference between gentlemen's clubs and casinos.

"The clubs are not regulated by the state like casinos are," he said. "Casino folks have high standards or performance and they work well with local law enforcement agencies."

The La Porte County BZA is scheduled to make a decision on the variance, which was tabled 90 days from the board's January meeting, at its April 17 meeting, set for 6 p.m. at the La Porte County Complex.

Dwyane Hogan, president of the zoning board, said he "applauds" the petitioner for wanting to start a business — but La Porte County is not the place for it.

"It belongs in an adult entertainment mecca like South Beach in Florida or Las Vegas," he said.

Michigan City Councilman Don Przybylinski knows a bit about presiding over a zoning board — serving on the Michigan City BZA for 10 years before he was elected to the city council last year.

Przybylinski said personal feelings aside, "if it falls within the laws that are set forth, then you are required to vote in that matter."

"Members can have their personal preference — but it all comes down to the law," he said.

Przybylinski's preference is similar to Meer's.

"It does not portray a good image of any area that has that type of business in it," he said. "I don't want it here at one of our entrances as we are trying to develop that corridor and promote business."

While the councilman says "no one" has contacted him about their support of the club, "about 100" have voiced opposition.

"I don't see anything positive coming from it and listening to the opinions of many constituents leads me to believe the people do not think anything will either," he said.

For Meer though, it all comes down to class.

"This is not going to be a classy establishment — certainly not something we want defining our community," Meer said. "If Michigan City wants to be a class act, we need to have high standards."

Posted by: Ang Mar 23 2012, 12:17 PM

http://thenewsdispatch.com/articles/2012/03/22/news/local/doc4f6a934dc6a49748741161.txt

QUOTE

Group helps citizens organize in fight against proposed club

By Lois Tomaszewski
Staff Writer
Published: Thursday, March 22, 2012 5:06 PM CDT
MICHIGAN CITY — An advocate for an organization that has battled sexual-oriented businesses in the region spoke by invitation to a group of citizens Wednesday night, offering support and guidance in their efforts to persuade the La Porte County Zoning Board to turn down a permit for a “Gentleman’s Club” proposed for a site near U.S. 35, U.S. 20 and Interstate 94.

Patrick Mangan, with the Citizens for Community Values of Indiana, gave the group a suggested action plan in advance of a 6 p.m., April 17 zoning board meeting at the La Porte County Complex. The plans include a letter, phone call and email blitz to planning board members and elected officials, showing up en masse at the meeting and looking at creating ordinances to protect the community from the sexual-oriented businesses.

Mangan’s group led efforts in South Bend and Mishawaka to make sure these types of businesses are regulated and made to follow the rules. Other local efforts included successfully defeating a similar type strip club from opening in Berrien County, Mich. a few years ago.

When his group gets involved, it is by invitation, Mangan said. Once involved and authorized to speak on behalf of the community, his organization can provide case law and statistics to help present boards enforce existing laws or draft new ones to protect communities.

Mangan told the group that La Porte County’s existing zoning is likely enough to keep the club from opening at the proposed location. This opinion is based on reviewing restrictions limiting where this kind of business can be located compared to adjoining businesses. These kind of restrictions have been upheld in courts, in addition to setting times of operation and placing restrictions on the manner in which it operates.

The reason residents need to organize against these kinds of businesses include increases in crime, including sexual assaults, decreasing property values and increasing blighted areas. Mangan referenced Department of Justice statistics for what is called “secondary negative effects.”

“These businesses have a Constitutional right to exist,” Mangan said, “but they don’t have a constitutional right not to follow the laws.”

Posted by: Southsider2k12 Apr 12 2012, 10:18 AM

http://thenewsdispatch.com/articles/2012/04/12/news/opinion/anvil_chorus/doc4f84e91c481ec325861688.txt

QUOTE

‘Gentlemen’s Club’ is a strip club

Published: Wednesday, April 11, 2012 5:07 PM CDT
A “Gentlemen’s” Club?

Sounds innocent enough, but what really is a gentleman’s club? According to Wikipedia, the popular euphemism for nearly all so-called gentlemen’s clubs is strip club.

A highly profitable strip club needs to be located as close to major traffic routes as possible since most local patrons of these clubs go to other areas to avoid being recognized by their neighbors as patrons.

More than likely, if people travel a fair distance to obtain much of anything, they won’t want to leave empty-handed. What happens when the goal they have come here to achieve is not fulfilled?

*
A 1984 study conducted by Indiana University stated: “No other type of facility, including drug rehab centers, have such a significant negative impact on property values” as did a sexually-oriented business.

A second attempt to open a “Gentlemen’s Club” in LaPorte County is being made at the busy intersection of U.S. 20 and 35, after the failure to establish a club on Highway 421. The moral foundation of our community is again being challenged.

The Highway 20/35 intersection, with the merge lanes so close to the 35 south turn from U.S. 20, already has a multitude of traffic problems, resulting in a number of accidents. Anyone who lives in this area or travels these routes regularly will attest to the dangers of big rigs exiting the interstate not yielding to eastbound merging traffic trying to head south on Highway 35, and the close proximity of the traffic light from the interstate exit. Many school busses use this route. More traffic would put our children in greater danger.

Join us on April 17 at the LaPorte County Zoning Board meeting to be held at the County Complex at 6 p.m. Your presence will make a difference!

Carl and Judy Kush

La Porte, IN

Posted by: Ang Apr 12 2012, 10:39 AM

The subject of this topic aside (I'm done beating this horse), when did Wikepedia become the expert on anything? Citing Wiki is like saying, "My neighbors's cousin's best friend's girlfriend told me......"

Posted by: taxthedeer Apr 12 2012, 02:36 PM

The US 35 location is right next door to the Serenity Springs resort. Would Serenity Springs be considered as a "Bed and Breakfast"? That would be the only thing I see that would prevent the BZA from denying this petition.

I still feel it's going to take a lot more than just a bunch of do-gooders saying, "I don't like strip clubs" to pervent this establishment from becoming a reality. This ownership group seems awfully persistent. Wouldn't surprise at all if the US 35 location goes through that they still try to get the original 421 location as well.

Posted by: Tim Apr 12 2012, 04:26 PM

I don't think there's anything to stop this crap from moving forward. Perversion makes money. It'll be like Indiana's joke of a smoking ban. If the city or state can make tax revenue from allowing a sleaze hall to open - look for it.

Posted by: taxthedeer Apr 18 2012, 05:35 AM

What happened at the BZA meeting last night? Approved, disapproved or tabled again?

Posted by: Southsider2k12 Apr 18 2012, 07:05 AM

http://www.abc57.com/news/local/la-porte/Michigan-City-neighborhood-fighting-plans-to-build-a-strip-club-147869215.html

QUOTE

MICHIGAN CITY, Ind. – Plans to build a strip club near Michigan City are drawing fire from residents who don’t want a gentleman’s club in their backyards.

The La Porte County Board of zoning is considering whether to allow a strip club to be built just south of the intersection of U.S. 20 and Highway 35. On Tuesday night the board decided to push back voting on the plans. At a previous meeting about the proposed club hundreds of angry residents showed up to protest the idea.

“Two hundred people showed up in a snow storm, in a blizzard,” described Bud Lies, whose business and home are right across the street from the proposed site of the club. “We just kind of feel that the type of business that’s trying to locate there is not right for the location.”

Signs and flyers with “stop strip bars & pornography” now line the neighborhood. Lies and other people who live near the site say they’re worried about what the club could bring to their homes.

“My concerns…security, as far as the crime rate,” Lies explained. “We’re going to bring in a lot of traffic that normally wouldn’t be in this neighborhood.”

Those opposed to the club are being assisted in their fight by Patrick Mangan of the Coalition for Community Values of Indiana, who claimed studies have shown that strip clubs bring big problems for the areas surrounding them.

“Increased crime, decreased property values and increased blight,” Mangan explained describing problems at other strip club locations. “The property values were destroyed, there was terrible amounts of crime, there were killings and violence at the strip clubs.”

Mangan and many of the residents along Highway 35 fear that the club could attract more crime to the area.

“If a strip club operates within the law: tease, tantalize, don’t fulfill and keep people buying alcohol for hours upon hours so that they’re all jazzed up on alcohol and all jazzed up on testosterone,” Mangan explained. “What we see is that criminal sexual offenses can go up as much as 500 to 1000 percent in the immediate vicinity.”

The immediate vicinity, in this case, would be businesses and some homes.

“We don’t need any more crime than what we’ve already got right now and it’s documented that these sorts of businesses cause crime to increase,” said Carole Loniewski, a property owner on Highway 35. “We don’t need that.”

The La Porte County Board of Zoning will consider the strip club plan on July 17.

Attempts to reach the people planning to build the club for comment were unsuccessful.

Posted by: Southsider2k12 Apr 18 2012, 07:17 AM

QUOTE(taxthedeer @ Apr 18 2012, 06:35 AM)

What happened at the BZA meeting last night? Approved, disapproved or tabled again?

PPD until May 15

http://thenewsdispatch.com/articles/2012/04/17/news/local/doc4f8cdc4b6ef3c338242614.txt

QUOTE

Gentlemen’s Club’ hearing postponed until May 15

By Lois Tomaszewski
Staff Writer
Published: Tuesday, April 17, 2012 5:06 PM CDT
LA PORTE — A proposal for a “Gentlemen’s Club” in La Porte County originally on the agenda for today’s La Porte County Board of Zoning Appeals meeting has been postponed until May 15, Annemarie Polan, with the county planning commission, confirmed Monday afternoon.

A petition submitted by John Burys, for Phoenix Enterprises America, LLC, asked the board to approve a variance so the property at 5906 North U.S. Highway 35 can be operated as an adult entertainment facility. The News-Dispatch was not able to reach the planning commission or the petitioner’s attorney prior to press time to determine the reason for the postponement.

This is the second site Burys and the other Chicago-based owners of Phoenix Enterprises America have considered for this business, which has generated public protest at earlier meetings.

The board denied a previous request to locate the business near Interstate 94 and U.S. Highway 421, citing traffic safety issues and the close proximity to area schools, colleges and recreation facilities frequented by children. That decision has been protested, with petitioner Burys and the other Chicago-based owners of Phoenix Enterprises America filing a complaint against the county and the zoning board in federal court. The business owners claim that the board’s decision violates First Amendment rights.

Posted by: Southsider2k12 Apr 19 2012, 07:08 AM

http://heraldargus.com/articles/2012/04/19/news/local/doc4f8e2bac9c7f7240082819.txt

QUOTE

‘Gentlemen’s Club’ variance request tabled

By Lois Tomaszewski
Staff writer
Published: Wednesday, April 18, 2012 5:03 PM CDT
LA PORTE — The decision by the La Porte County Board of Zoning Appeals to postpone a hearing on a proposed strip club just outside Michigan City was supposed to push the hearing date to next month, according to a statement released by the La Porte County Attorney. At the 6 p.m. meeting, however, the board continued the petition for 90 days.

Dwayne Hogan, president of the BZA, said documentation is still needed for the board to formulate a decision. One missing piece is a traffic study the board requested that has not been completed and additional information relating to the First Amendment protections invoked by the petitioners, John Burys for Chicago-based Phoenix Enterprises America, LLC.

In the statement provided Tuesday morning, attorney Douglas L. Biege indicated that the decision to postpone was agreeable to both parties.

“The purpose of this continuance is to allow ... time to assemble necessary information for proper consideration by the zoning board under the criteria set forth in the La Porte County Joint Zoning Ordinance as well as the First Amendment of the United States Constitution,” Biege wrote in the statement.

Hogan said the variance being requested is required because this adult-oriented business is a special exception to the county’s ordinances. The board has to consider facts and evidence and discount emotional arguments either for or against the proposed business, he said.

Phoenix Enterprises America, LLC, asked the board to approve a variance so the property at 5906 N. U.S. 35 can be operated as an adult entertainment facility.

News of the continuance raised suspicions of opponents to the petition, who planned to rally support against the petition at Tuesday’s meeting.

“The continuance of the Zoning Board’s vote regarding the proposed gentlemen’s club must not be a setback to defeat the community support against the zoning appeal,” said Carole A. Loniewski in an emailed statement. She is related to Richard Loniewski, property owner for the club’s proposed location.

“We cannot succumb to tactics of discouragement to change our values and ethics,” she wrote.

The delay in hearing the petition only means more time to garner support, Loniewski said.

Hogan said he applauded efforts of the public to show their concern. There is a place for this kind of business, Hogan said, but his board’s job is to determine if the location they are suggesting meets the requirements of the county ordinances and fits in with the master plan, which is still under revision.

The board’s action Tuesday evening puts the “Gentlemen’s Club” variance petition on the agenda for the July 17 meeting.

Posted by: Southsider2k12 Apr 30 2012, 12:58 PM

http://thenewsdispatch.com/articles/2012/04/30/news/local/doc4f9c759adbd12574548033.txt

QUOTE

All opposed: County candidates voice opposition to ‘Gentlemen’s Club’

By Lois Tomaszewski
Staff Writer
Published: Sunday, April 29, 2012 5:06 PM CDT
MICHIGAN CITY — Candidates for county offices who attended the NAACP candidates’ breakfast Saturday morning were asked to go on record regarding their position on the proposed “Gentlemen’s Club” in the county’s Springfield community.

Although the event was organized to allow voters to meet the candidates who will be appearing on the May 8 primary ballot, NAACP member Dan Briggs told the crowd the local NAACP had passed a resolution against the club and was asking candidates to state their position. All local candidates attending complied, although some were slightly more guarded in their voiced opposition.

County Commissioner Candidate from District 3 Vidya Kora said he has signed a document opposing the club’s first intended location, near Coolsprings Elementary School. He urged those opposed to show their opposition, especially those in the Springfield community.

Nancy Hawkins, who is seeking re-election for the county treasurer seat, already feels personally involved in opposing the club. “I do live in the Springfield community and it’s going to be in my backyard,” Hawkins said. “I don’t want it there. These are not the kind of jobs La Porte County needs.”

“This would be the only one in La Porte County,” said Steve Holofield, a candidate for one of three La Porte County Council At-Large seats. “There are better sites other than this one. It can go someplace else.”

Lois Sosinski, also a candidate for one of three La Porte County Council At Large seats, said she understands there are legal and moral issues that the Gentlemen’s Club forces people to deal with. “I’m willing to do whatever I can to prevent the club from locating here,” Sosinski said.

But topics discussed did not focus solely on the Gentlemen’s Club.

Anthony “Tony” Hendricks, who is running for re-election as the county’s surveyor, told the audience that passing a conduct ordinance is a good way to keep track of how businesses like a Gentlemen’s Club would operate in La Porte County.

• David Decker, who is seeking a seat on the County Commission from District 2, told the crowd that the Democratic Civic Club is opposed to an appearance by the controversial musician and NRA supporter Ted Nugent at the La Porte County Fairgrounds. Decker said Nugent’s controversial and militant stand should not be included at a venue that features the county’s 4-H participants.

• Scott Ford, a candidate for County Council, talked about the advantages the KIP logistics site will bring to La Porte County. Considered to be the first of it’s kind in the region, the site will receive goods and produce from international markets through the Port of Tampa.

Among the state and federal candidates attending were U.S. Congressman Pete Visclosky (D), his opponent Joel Phelps, and state representative Scott Pelath and his opponent Dan Granquist.

Other candidates attending included: La Porte County Circuit Court Judge Thomas J. Alevizos; Joie Winski, county auditor candidate; Earl Cunningham, Barbara Dean and Suzanne Miller, running for county recorder; and District 1 Commission candidate Barbara Huston.

The NAACP candidate breakfast is an annual event. It was held at the Hope Center on McClelland Avenue on the city’s west side.

Posted by: Southsider2k12 Jul 6 2012, 09:09 AM

http://thenewsdispatch.com/articles/2012/07/05/news/local/doc4ff24a32b4e15201788000.txt

QUOTE

'Gentlemen's Club' variance case continued

Staff Reports
Published: Tuesday, July 3, 2012 5:06 PM CDT
LA PORTE — A petition for a proposed “gentlemen’s club” at 5906 N. U.S. 35 which is pending before La Porte County’s Board of Zoning Appeals has been continued and will not be heard by the board July 17.

Attorneys in the case announced Monday that the hearing on the amended petition of Richard Loniewski and John Burys, doing business as Chicago-based Phoenix Enterprises America LLC, was continued by agreement of the petitioners and the county in connection with litigation that is pending.

According to the attorneys, public notice will be given when the matter will be set for further public hearing.

According to county officials, the variance is being requested because it is required for an adult-oriented business, as it is a special exception to the county’s ordinances.

In December, the petitioners filed a complaint against La Porte County and the La Porte County Board of Zoning appeals for denying a request Nov. 15 to place the club just south of the Michigan City border near Interstate 94 and U.S. 421.

The case was filed in U.S. District Court, Northern District of Indiana, South Bend Division.

The plaintiffs are seeking a jury trial and want the court to grant an injunction ordering the board of zoning appeals to grant the requested variance for the club.

The decision is being challenged, according to the complaint, “on the basis that it imposes unlawful restrictions and prohibits First Amendment-protected expression on the basis of content.”

Posted by: Southsider2k12 Nov 5 2012, 09:34 AM

http://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/laporte/michigan-city/laporte-county-addressing-request-for-strip-club/article_5223ca07-4864-5993-b7d5-2717b283d689.html

QUOTE

LaPorte County addressing request for strip club
Stan Maddux Times Correspondent

LaPorte County officials, hoping to avoid costly lawsuits, are thinking about lifting the current ban on strip clubs.

The ban on strip clubs is considered by many as unconstitional.

Their efforts could open the door for a man who wants to put up a so-called gentleman's club outside Michigan City.

The proposed measure contains regulations that might discourage the business from going up.

The matter was taken up recently during a joint meeting of the LaPorte County Board of Commissioners and LaPorte County Planning Commission. About 100 people attended.

Patrick Mangan, executive director of Citizens for Community Values of Indiana, told officials they are on the right track for being able to regulate such businesses with the restrictions being proposed.

"These are places of sexual encounters. You should be constructing the strongest ordinance you can under the law," Mangan said.

Among the restrictions proposed is adult establishments having to close at 2 a.m. and dancers being no closer than 6 feet from customers.

John Burys, a Chicago-area businessman, wants to establish a gentleman's club on U.S. 35 just south of U.S. 20 east of Michigan City.

It is his second attempt after his first proposed site on U.S. 421 near Interstate 94 south of Michigan City was turned down last year.

Burys expressed concern about customers and dancers not being able to have physical contact and closing one hour sooner than many drinking establishments in the area.

His attorney, Dave Ambers, of LaPorte, asked officials to reconsider some of the proposed measures, feeling it would place his client's business at a disadvantage.

"He's saying, 'Let's talk.' Get more input before you vote on it. If done right it can be done well. It can be done safe," Ambers said.

Mangan and Erik Kelly, a Ball State University professor who studies the impact strip clubs have on communities, both pointed to statistics that indicate neighborhoods where adult establishments go on to experience increased crime, lower property values and blight.

"Unfortunately, they attract a certain amount of criminal activity even if the businesses are well run," Kelly said.

No decisions were made on the proposed zoning changes.

The LaPorte County commissioners chose to further discuss the matter Nov. 20, while the LaPorte County Planning Commission scheduled a meeting for Nov. 27 to possibly take a vote on the proposed restrictions.

Posted by: taxthedeer Nov 5 2012, 12:24 PM

John Burys is the general manager of Atlantis Gentlemen's Club in at U.S. 30 and route 394 in Ford Heights, Illinois. He would be the owner/operator of the Phoenix Club if it were to locate here. I found it interesting that you have to be 21 to go the but you only have to be 18 to work there.

Here is Atlantis Night Club's website and their employment prerequisites for hire:

http://www.atlantischicago.com

QUOTE

Employment Opportunities
Candidates that will be considered are those that meet the following qualifications:

Are at least 21 years of age
Has a valid state issued driver’s license
Have reliable transportation
Are experienced in an adult entertainment environment
Has an outgoing, friendly and gracious personality
Has extraordinary customer service skills
Positions available...
Entertainers
Must be at least 18 years of age with valid government issued photo ID
Bartenders
Servers
Floor Hosts
Cashiers
Shot Girls
Valet
DJ's
Send you resume to us at info@atlantischicago.com or call 1-866-99ATLANTIS.

Posted by: Southsider2k12 Nov 5 2012, 12:38 PM

QUOTE(taxthedeer @ Nov 5 2012, 12:24 PM)

John Burys is the general manager of Atlantis Gentlemen's Club in at U.S. 30 and route 394 in Ford Heights, Illinois. He would be the owner/operator of the Phoenix Club if it were to locate here. I found it interesting that you have to be 21 to go the but you only have to be 18 to work there.

Here is Atlantis Night Club's website and their employment prerequisites for hire:

http://www.atlantischicago.com

Some pretty interesting stories pop up when you google the club name as well... Shootings, drug raids. Fun.

Posted by: Tim Nov 5 2012, 09:49 PM

QUOTE(Southsider2k12 @ Nov 5 2012, 12:38 PM)

Some pretty interesting stories pop up when you google the club name as well... Shootings, drug raids. Fun.

Yeah - that's just what MC needs.

Posted by: Ang Nov 6 2012, 08:33 AM

Considering the recent events, they'd feel right at home here.

Posted by: diggler Nov 6 2012, 09:04 AM

I know for a fact, that if one strip club pop ups....there will be MORE to follow. 421 could eventually wind up being the Mannheim Road of LaPorte County:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K9dBtkrJvM4

_

Posted by: Southsider2k12 Nov 6 2012, 09:15 AM

As I see it, there is one real way to fight it. Make it unprofitable to locate in LaPorte County, and that can be done in a few easy steps.

-First ban alcohol completely at these locations. Sale and procession can be made illegal at specific types of places.

-Second, pass a head tax based on the original casino charter that saw $3 a head paid by Blue Chip back to the county and city.

-Third, institute a tax specifically as a percentage of total revenues, also similar to how Blue Chip is now taxed. Make it a high percentage, say 25 or 30%.

If you kill the profit incentive, you kill the club.

Posted by: Commuter Nov 7 2012, 10:36 PM

QUOTE(Southsider2k12 @ Nov 6 2012, 10:15 AM)

-Second, pass a head tax [snip]

MODERATOR!!!

Posted by: Southsider2k12 Nov 8 2012, 07:09 AM

QUOTE(Commuter @ Nov 7 2012, 10:36 PM)

MODERATOR!!!

Posted by: taxthedeer Nov 8 2012, 08:06 AM

I heard that another club ownership group is interested in developing the former 84 Lumber property on northside of U.S. 20 on the Porter County side of the Porter/La Porte County line.

Posted by: Southsider2k12 Nov 8 2012, 02:46 PM

QUOTE(taxthedeer @ Nov 8 2012, 08:06 AM)

I heard that another club ownership group is interested in developing the former 84 Lumber property on northside of U.S. 20 on the Porter County side of the Porter/La Porte County line.

I would be shocked if Porter County let it happen.

Posted by: jkeppen Nov 10 2012, 02:51 AM

QUOTE(Southsider2k12 @ Nov 6 2012, 09:15 AM)

As I see it, there is one real way to fight it. Make it unprofitable to locate in LaPorte County, and that can be done in a few easy steps.

-First ban alcohol completely at these locations. Sale and procession can be made illegal at specific types of places.

-Second, pass a head tax based on the original casino charter that saw $3 a head paid by Blue Chip back to the county and city.

-Third, institute a tax specifically as a percentage of total revenues, also similar to how Blue Chip is now taxed. Make it a high percentage, say 25 or 30%.

If you kill the profit incentive, you kill the club.

This is insanity... you don't get to have your cake and eat it too. You can't complain about companies not wanting to come here and getting tax money here in town and then at the same time say well I don't want this kind of business here. To do something like this is completely insane. You can't tax a business at a different rate or way then another business. You don't want the business here that's fine do it properly peacefully picket them get all of your friends together to picket the building. Get the signatures needed to keep it away but to apply taxes at a different rate then say a bar like rileys is insanity. Also banning alcohol at a business that has a valid license again paying taxes on said license and bringing money into the city, is illegal. I don't see how you think this business is going to drive people away when people come here and drive up the boulevard to the casino and are scared if they're going to get robbed. That think they may get robbed at the lighthouse mall. When they're worried about if they will be able to go the lake without issues raised to them. You want tourists here? Then we need to clean up the city. While you're worried about a strip club that's going to sell sex in town our children are out there robbing former teachers and killing them.... THAT'S WHY PEOPLE DON'T WANT TO COME HERE. Wake up.

Posted by: Tim Nov 10 2012, 06:38 AM

QUOTE(jkeppen @ Nov 10 2012, 02:51 AM)

This is insanity... you don't get to have your cake and eat it too. You can't complain about companies not wanting to come here and getting tax money here in town and then at the same time say well I don't want this kind of business here. To do something like this is completely insane. You can't tax a business at a different rate or way then another business. You don't want the business here that's fine do it properly peacefully picket them get all of your friends together to picket the building. Get the signatures needed to keep it away but to apply taxes at a different rate then say a bar like rileys is insanity. Also banning alcohol at a business that has a valid license again paying taxes on said license and bringing money into the city, is illegal. I don't see how you think this business is going to drive people away when people come here and drive up the boulevard to the casino and are scared if they're going to get robbed. That think they may get robbed at the lighthouse mall. When they're worried about if they will be able to go the lake without issues raised to them. You want tourists here? Then we need to clean up the city. While you're worried about a strip club that's going to sell sex in town our children are out there robbing former teachers and killing them.... THAT'S WHY PEOPLE DON'T WANT TO COME HERE. Wake up.

So - it's insanity, you're saying.

Posted by: Southsider2k12 Nov 10 2012, 07:25 AM

QUOTE(jkeppen @ Nov 10 2012, 02:51 AM)

This is insanity... you don't get to have your cake and eat it too. You can't complain about companies not wanting to come here and getting tax money here in town and then at the same time say well I don't want this kind of business here. To do something like this is completely insane. You can't tax a business at a different rate or way then another business. You don't want the business here that's fine do it properly peacefully picket them get all of your friends together to picket the building. Get the signatures needed to keep it away but to apply taxes at a different rate then say a bar like rileys is insanity. Also banning alcohol at a business that has a valid license again paying taxes on said license and bringing money into the city, is illegal. I don't see how you think this business is going to drive people away when people come here and drive up the boulevard to the casino and are scared if they're going to get robbed. That think they may get robbed at the lighthouse mall. When they're worried about if they will be able to go the lake without issues raised to them. You want tourists here? Then we need to clean up the city. While you're worried about a strip club that's going to sell sex in town our children are out there robbing former teachers and killing them.... THAT'S WHY PEOPLE DON'T WANT TO COME HERE. Wake up.

Except for the whole ban alcohol part, we do all of the rest of these things already at the Casino. We tax them at a completely different rate. Are you getting your friends together to protest to give their money back? And yes, you can ban alcohol at businesses. Strip clubs within the Chicago city limits aren't allowed to sell alcohol.

And yes, I can complain that I don't want this kind of business in Michigan City. I also don't want any more power plants on the beach, garbage dumps, prisons, coal ash dumps, etc.

Finally, would you buy a house next to, or open a small business, next to this place?

Posted by: Southsider2k12 Nov 10 2012, 08:15 AM

QUOTE(jkeppen @ Nov 10 2012, 02:51 AM)

This is insanity... you don't get to have your cake and eat it too. You can't complain about companies not wanting to come here and getting tax money here in town and then at the same time say well I don't want this kind of business here. To do something like this is completely insane. You can't tax a business at a different rate or way then another business. You don't want the business here that's fine do it properly peacefully picket them get all of your friends together to picket the building. Get the signatures needed to keep it away but to apply taxes at a different rate then say a bar like rileys is insanity. Also banning alcohol at a business that has a valid license again paying taxes on said license and bringing money into the city, is illegal. I don't see how you think this business is going to drive people away when people come here and drive up the boulevard to the casino and are scared if they're going to get robbed. That think they may get robbed at the lighthouse mall. When they're worried about if they will be able to go the lake without issues raised to them. You want tourists here? Then we need to clean up the city. While you're worried about a strip club that's going to sell sex in town our children are out there robbing former teachers and killing them.... THAT'S WHY PEOPLE DON'T WANT TO COME HERE. Wake up.

Actually to finish my though, I think you are trying to over simplify this issue. I know we have other issues in this town other than the strip club. Not wanting a strip club isn't mutally exclusive to everything else in your rant list. I am worried about crime in this town. I have been very vocal about finding things for our kids to do to keep them out of jail. I have also been very vocal about our school system and not burdening it with tons of debt, so as to prevent the massive layoffs that we have seen, and will be seeing again soon.

This isn't one issue. It is a lot of different issues. Each of which requires a different response.

Posted by: Southsider2k12 Nov 26 2012, 08:33 AM

Hopefully this works, and doesn't turn into an expensive lawsuit.

http://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/laporte/city-of-laporte/strip-club-restrictions-passed-in-laporte-county/article_1848ef26-76ae-5070-abde-8a35a74ecc9c.html

QUOTE

Strip club restrictions passed in LaPorte County
November 23, 2012 12:00 am • Stan Maddux Times Correspondent

Restrictions governing the operation of strip clubs have been adopted in LaPorte County in response to a so-called gentleman's club that wants to go up near Michigan City.

LaPorte County Commission president Ken Layton said he expects a legal challenge.

He added the measure adopted Tuesday night was crafted after restrictions adopted in Illinois and Florida that already have withstood legal challenges.

"We feel confident that what we have adopted will prevent us from losing in the district appeals court here in Indiana," said Layton.

Among the restrictions is that nude dancers and patrons cannot be within six feet of each other.

"If they are scantily clad or show any nudity whatsoever they cannot be within a six foot radius of the patron. That, of course, is to stop the pretense of the lap dances and stuff like that," said Layton.

"I believe that might be one of the very most restrictive portions of it," said Layton.

Such establishments would also have to close at 2 a.m.

Layton said contingencies were also placed in the ordinance that outlines the process to be followed to pull the operator's license if the restrictions are not followed.

John Burys, a Chicago area businessman, wants to put up a gentleman's club on U.S. 35 just south of U.S. 20 east of Michigan City.

It is his second attempt after his first proposed site on U.S. 421 near Interstate 94 south of Michigan City was turned down last year.

His attorney Dave Ambers said no decisions have been made on what his client's next step might be.

Burys feels the restrictions, especially the six-foot distance requirement and closing at 2 a.m., would seriously limit his ability to run a successful business.

"He's certainly going to have to weigh his options of how he moves forward," Ambers said.

The newly adopted restrictions replace previous measures that were viewed by LaPorte County officials as too restrictive and unconstitutional.

Some residents would like such establishments prohibited, but since a ban cannot legally be imposed the idea is to either discourage them from coming or at least control what goes on inside them, Layton said.

"The regulations are all geared toward maintaining a sense of decency," said Layton.

Posted by: Commuter Nov 26 2012, 01:47 PM

QUOTE

"The regulations are all geared toward maintaining a sense of decency," said Layton.

First of all, define "decency."

I remember the "shake shack" in LaPorte. Fun place to go.

It went out with the ban and was replaced by. . .. hmmm.... let's see... a liquor store and a cigarette store.

Decency?

Spare me.

Posted by: Southsider2k12 Nov 30 2012, 01:07 PM

I forgot to post this the other day, but I learned at the planning commission meeting on Tuesday that the County ordinance regarding the adult entertainment industry does NOT apply to Michigan City. City would have to have the Council pass its own ordinance if it wanted to have the same restrictions as the county.

Posted by: taxthedeer Sep 8 2014, 11:11 AM

In appears the strip club issue is dead. Phoenix Enterprises is no longer going to attempt to locate in La Porte County.

Posted by: Groucho Sep 9 2014, 07:33 AM

QUOTE(southsiderMMX @ Nov 14 2011, 12:49 PM)

On line petition against the Club.

http://petitionbureau.org/save421

I understand the most on the board are against this type of establishment. The draw of this type of thing is its easy access to I94 and relatively cheap land. I visited the area for the first time in many years in the summer of 2013 and saw a lot of construction and improvement on the 421 ramp.

That attracts developers looking for cheaper land. This Illinois business man is planning on building a strip club from scratch. That's an expensive proposition. While it is not the type of business that most would want it does show how valuable that are is for development and that are should attract more appropriate businesses.

This guy was looking for a quick approval. If he is approved it may affect what other types of businesses might want to move in there. Overall its the Wrong business but the right location.

Posted by: Southsider2k12 Sep 9 2014, 08:38 AM

QUOTE(Groucho @ Sep 9 2014, 08:33 AM)

I understand the most on the board are against this type of establishment. The draw of this type of thing is its easy access to I94 and relatively cheap land. I visited the area for the first time in many years in the summer of 2013 and saw a lot of construction and improvement on the 421 ramp.

That attracts developers looking for cheaper land. This Illinois business man is planning on building a strip club from scratch. That's an expensive proposition. While it is not the type of business that most would want it does show how valuable that are is for development and that are should attract more appropriate businesses.

This guy was looking for a quick approval. If he is approved it may affect what other types of businesses might want to move in there. Overall its the Wrong business but the right location.

LP County is the perfect places for businesses like this too, as it has really low taxes, which means really low cost of business for business.

Posted by: Southsider2k12 Sep 9 2014, 09:43 AM

While I didn't want a strip club around, Milsap needs to realize that the County would have lost this case. Period, end of story, and it would have cost the County taxpayers A LOT of money. Strip clubs fall under the first amendment protections of free speech.

http://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/laporte/laporte-county-declares-victory-in-strip-club-fight/article_d8f1abad-b4f7-58f0-b6e3-70e21e7f0b76.html

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City by the Lake.org, The Voice of Michigan City, Indiana _ City Talk _ Gentlemen's Strip Club wants to locate on U.S. 421 south of I-94

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