In a recent government meeting, the council voted to deny a special use permit (SP 2423) without prejudice, following a motion that received unanimous support. The decision came after discussions surrounding the application, which had garnered public interest.
The council then turned its attention to a new special use permit application (SP 2425) for a restaurant at 508 Westcott Street. The applicant, represented by William Pitcher, proposed to modify an existing permit to establish a new restaurant named Colucci, replacing the previous tenant. The modifications include changing the interior layout from banquet-style seating to individual tables and chairs, while maintaining the same operational hours and occupancy levels as before.
Pitcher requested the continuation of parking waivers granted under the original special permit, emphasizing that the nature of the business and the building's size would remain unchanged. The council noted a missing menu item in the application packet, which had been published in a local newspaper, leading to some light-hearted exchanges about the oversight.
Support for the new restaurant was voiced by Corey Williams, the 3rd District Councilor, who highlighted the community's eagerness for revitalization in the Westcott Street area, particularly following the closure of a previous establishment. Williams expressed optimism about Colucci's potential to enhance neighborhood vitality and urged the council to approve the special use permit.
With no opposition voiced during the public comment period, the council is set to consider the SECA review for SP 2425, signaling a positive trajectory for the new restaurant's establishment in the community.