Opinion: Fix Owner on Beer & Wine Permit Appeal

 

My name is Marc Gallucci and I own FIX COFFEE in Echo Park.

We at FIX COFFEE are obviously disappointed that our full approval of our conditional use permit from City Planning has been appealed by Susan Borden. However, we will continue to work towards enhancing what we--as well as many of our local neighborhood supporters--consider to be a very positive addition to the Echo Park Ave community corridor. 

I have personally met one-on-one with Susan Borden to hear her specific concerns, and I feel that we have addressed them to the best of our ability in the form of our extensive and very reasonable volunteered conditions as part of our permit.

Read the letter granting Fix its permit here.

I feel it is important to note that local LAPD Vice has given full approval and support of our plans, as they state that it will assist in actually reducing crime to immediate neighbors and the area in general. In addition, we intend to install exterior security cameras for added safety, security and peace of mind of our neighboring residents.

We have additionally received significant support from our local community in several different areas.  We created a petition for support that received over 1,500 signatures.  As much as 60 percent of the signatures came from residents within walking distance of FIX. 

We also received full support from our local Greater Elysian Echo Park Neighborhood Council, Chamber of Commerce and numerous local neighbors. 

We are a small business that cares about the Echo Park community.  We take great care to accommodate the needs of our surrounding residents and intend to continue to strive to meet those needs while balancing a growing business. 

FIX is located in a zone that was intended for commercial use and, this being the case; our goal is for this commercial space to be an enhancement for surrounding residents.  Our operating hours and allowable music times reflect this goal. 

The proximity of FIX to the Echo Park residents has provided a warm and inviting ambiance for socializing, within a walkable distance. With the addition of a full food menu and beer/wine, we will be able to continue this welcome enhancement into the evening, all the while bolstering the economic financial viability of the area.

We intend to continue our work within the community to address any potential issues such as, but not limited to noise abatement needs, security concerns, operating hours and area image.

Sincerely,

Marc Gallucci

Owner – FIX COFFEE, LLC

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