A Major Nuisance For Cities

Liquor stores and stop-and-go’s, also known as nuisance businesses, have slipped through a legal loophole to hurt the quality of life in Philadelphia.

1 minute read

November 14, 2003, 10:00 AM PST

By David Gest

"Newly reelected mayor John Street [believes that] the proliferation of nuisance takeout restaurants is one of the city's most pressing quality-of-life/public safety issues." Police confirm that crime reports center around areas with nuisance establishments. "[S]top-and-go's, which combine bulletproof glass and late hours with 40s and malt liquor [yield] effects ranging from mild disturbances, like late-night noise, to violence and drug sales." A legal loophole allows "any liquor license [to] be transferred from one person to another privately, without any chance for public debate." This causes serious problems, as buildings can be reopened as bars even if a school or church had since moved in nearby. One community group opposing the stores has dubbed itself "Neighbors Organized Against Maddening, Outrageous and Rowdy Establishments (NO MORE)."

Thanks to David Gest

FULL STORY: Will the City Say

Wednesday, November 12, 2003 in Philadelphia Weekly

Community / Economic Development Pennsylvania

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