The Rhawnhurst Civic Association is opposed to a proposed nightclub at 8014 Castor Ave. (at Fuller Street).
Building permits were granted for a sit-down restaurant, but owners are now seeking a nightclub and smoking lounge.
In a show of hands at last week’s civic association meeting, members overwhelmingly indicated their disapproval at the change. Residents also signed a petition in opposition.
City Councilman Brian O’Neill and state Rep. Ed Neilson oppose the plan as well.
Neighbors argue that the site is surrounded by homes and that there is no off-street parking.
A hearing is scheduled for March 13 in front of the Zoning Board of Adjustment.
In another zoning matter, there is a proposal for seven retail tenants to occupy the space at 8430 Bustleton Ave. Offices would be on the second floor. In 2019, a developer proposed a hotel for that site before withdrawing the plan amid neighborhood opposition.
Updates can be found at rhawnhurstcivicassociation.com or the group’s Facebook page.
In other news from the Jan. 17 meeting, the civic announced it had received a $4,000 grant from the Philadelphia Activities Fund.
Community relations officer Mark Mroz represented the 2nd Police District.
Mroz spoke of an incident earlier in the day at Borbeck Avenue and Roosevelt Boulevard. Police saw a disabled car, and the man in the driver’s seat began firing shots and throwing items at officers. The Boulevard was shut down, and a barricade declared. Officers returned fire and killed the man.
Meanwhile, a benefit will take place on Thursday, Feb. 22, from 6-10 p.m. at Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 5, 11630 Caroline Road, for three 2nd district officers shot in October during an incident on the 7500 block of Whitaker Ave. The event will honor Sgt. Mitchell Farrell and Officers John Hesdon and Samantha Gress. There will be a silent auction, DJ and raffle baskets. No tickets will be sold, but monetary donations will be accepted at the door. For more information, call Officer Judy Kinniry at 267-515-8887, Cpl. Christopher Bennett at 215-605-0414 or Erin O’Donnell at 215-205-1922. ••
