Time's Running Out for Wild Hare, Owners say

The owners of a local club worry that they'll be out of business before their voices are heard regarding a denied license that they say is necessary for the venue's success.

The Wild Hare, which opened this past August at 2610 N. Halsted St. in Lincoln Park, hasn't been able to host the reggae concerts it was known for in Wrigleyville—where it operated for 25 years—because of its failure to acquire a public place of amusement license, according to a Chicago Tribune report.

Neighborhood residents and 43rd Ward Ald. Michele Smith have voiced concerns about the license, which has been denied twice. The business' four owners have appealed the city's denial, but it may be too late, they've said.

The Chicago Tribune reports:

Club owners said they were willing to help clean up after patrons and provide parking options. They also found an expert who testified that the club wouldn't have much traffic impact on the busy stretch of Halsted Street.

Still, the hearing officer ruled against the club in June. The license was again denied in the fall. ... (Owner William) Glastris worries that his club will be out of business before the appeal is heard. The Wild Hare's current business model is unsustainable, owners said.

More than 50 percent of voters living in the immediate vicinity of Wild Hare petitioned for the license's denial, the story says, and they went on to express frustrations at a public hearing.

For more information, see the attached legal document and read the full Chicago Tribune story.