The city's Zoning Board of Appeals on Wednesday cleared away another hurdle to Deep South Taco starting a restaurant at Hertel and Starin.
The proposal has been controversial and the meeting drew several speakers to oppose the plan for the site of a former oil change store. Opponents cite objections from noise to parking.
Larry Gottesman attended a public meeting where the project drew strong support. Gottesman says there was intimidation.
"Even though I will agree that the sentiment was overwhelmingly positive, those who had criticisms or points to bring up were actually hounded out of the room," Gottesman recalled.
"It was a very hostile situation for anyone who was critical in any way with the project. So much so that I myself and many others chose not to speak."
This isn't the final approval. The proposal is due before the Planning Board March 7.
The sit-down restaurant would include a large outdoor patio with a large TV screen with the sound turned off which drew much of the opposition since opponents say the noise from fans watching games on that TV will spread widely across the surrounding neighborhood.
