On May 14, 2007, the proprietors of the Dairy Store are applying for a permit to construct a keno gazebo for their keno patrons.
Business owners, Caryn S. and James A. Greco, would like to build a 14 by 24 ft. keno gazebo behind their Dairy Store on 335 Suffield St., in order to provide their customers with a place where they can smoke and play keno.
James Greco commented that their customers requested an outdoor place to play keno and watch television simultaneously.
The Dairy Store was awarded their first keno license over 10 years ago. Greco said that they have found their main market in people who would rather enjoy themselves peacefully than go to clubs to play keno.
The request made by Greco that day was filed before the Board of Appeals, which then decided to continue their public debate regarding the matter because they needed more information.
Building Inspector, Dominic J. Urbinati, commented that they consider the land to be nonconforming property, which means that it requires a special permit if any changes need to be made to it.
However, Board Head, Doreen A. Prouty, commented that the board members are not sure why Urbinati said that the property is nonconforming. The board has also given Greco back to the Planning Board because their approval is needed for the site plan.
Just last month the planning board did not give their approval of the plan given by the Greco's because it did not pass the requirements needed. Greco stated that he would present the new site plan to the Planning Board.
In a letter to Greco, Planning Board Chairman, Dennis B. Hopkins, stated that the board believes that using the exterior of the store for such purposes is not in accordance with the law in the city.
Hopkins further stated that the board believes that if they will allow a keno gazebo in the store, it will also violate the smoking law in the city.
Monday, June 04 , 2007
Louis Blechdom
