To the Editor:
I worked in my dad’s bar and restaurant for many years. Our establishment was in an area with similar businesses, outside the residential neighborhoods and downtown commercial areas.
I support Hooters’ right to locate their establishment somewhere in Shrewsbury. I also have great respect for Shrewsbury as a great family town and neighbors’ rights to quiet enjoyment of their property.
Shrewsbury residents tend to spend their leisure time with Soccer, Little League, volunteering, pursuing higher education and their families. Because local residents won’t be supporting Hooters, the vast majority of customers will have to come from Worcester and surrounding communities. Out-of-towners do not have the same pride in our town as local residents. The town, and abutting property owners, will have to deal with additional noise, disruptions, lights and public safety issues. Abutters are concerned the issues are still unresolved.
The clearing of trees due to the Asian Beetles exacerbated the problem. Now, neighbors who once had a buffer of trees to block the view of Hooters, will now have an unobstructed view of the building’s roof and parking lot.
Even after two evenings of public hearings, Hooter representatives have been unable to resolve issues of fencing, screening and adequate parking to the satisfaction of the Board of Selectmen. A professional site plan, a required key element for approval, has not been submitted. Hooters should be encouraged to locate their establishment on Route 20 where adult and non-family oriented entertainment already exists, away from the Lakeway District, the Gateway to Shrewsbury.
Benjamin W. Tartaglia, Sr.
Shrewsbury