Lawncrest backs half
of the plan

The Lawncrest Community Association last week had a mixed reaction to the proposed use of a vacant property at 5699 Rising Sun Ave.
The site is a former dollar store, and neighbors earlier rejected a bid to convert it to a billiards parlor.
The owner, zoning expeditor Tom Citro and attorney Shawn Ward were back before the LCA at its Jan. 15 meeting, this time proposing a seafood restaurant and beer distributor.
LCA members overwhelmingly, but not unanimously, approved the restaurant proposal in a show of hands. The agreement included several provisos, including a prohibition on the consumption of alcohol.
As for the beer distributor, it was rejected. Only a handful of neighbors backed the plan.
The applicant was scheduled to appear in front of the Zoning Board of Adjustment on Tuesday after the Times went to press.
In other news, the group heard from new City Councilman Bill Green (D-at large) and Mark Mroz, community relations officer in the 2nd Police District.
The Lawncrest 4th of July Committee will meet on Monday at 7 p.m. at the Seaport Inn, at 6328 Rising Sun Ave. The group is looking for volunteers. Call 215-651-8470 for information.
The Lawncrest Town Watch is also looking for volunteers. Call 215-745-1200 for more details.
Friends of Tacony Creek Park will meet on Thursday, Jan. 31, at 7 p.m., at the Salvation Army Citadel, at Rising Sun Avenue and Van Kirk Street.
The Lawncrest Community Association will meet again on Tuesday, Feb. 19 at 7 p.m., at St. William parish hall, at Argyle and Robbins streets. ••