DESTIN — If an adult entertainment club opens on Airport Road, city leaders probably won’t offer it a warm welcome.
“It’s not a family-oriented business,” City Councilman Larry Williges said. “With this type of business come prostitutes and scofflaws. It’s undesirable and I don’t want it here.”
While no formal plans have been submitted, city staffers and the club’s potential operator have discussed details.
As part of the settlement, officials agreed to allow topless dancing in the industrial zoning district along Airport Road. The city also agreed to expedite permit applications and allow alcohol to be sold in the bar within 1,000 feet of a church. Safe Harbor Presbyterian Church is located at Airport Road and Main Street.
The new business, which appears to be an outgrowth of Stephenson’s original plans, reportedly would open at the former site of Pottery World at 908 Airport Road.
The club is envisioned to be in a 5,625-square-foot, two-story building.
The property is next to Airport Veterinary Clinic, within walking distance to the Destin fire station and across the street from Kell-Aire Gardens subdivision.
City Councilman Jim Foreman, who lives in Kell-Aire, has heard from residents upset with the idea of a strip club opening.
“I think there is a building storm there,” he said. “It’s definitely out of place. The location is offensive.”
Williges, who also lives in Kell-Aire, noted that the location might be somewhat fitting.
“I thought it would be a great location because it’s right next to the sewer plant.”
While opposition likely will surface, officials’ hands appear to be tied. Based on the potential size of the development, the application and plans might not need City Council approval.
“They have to meet all city codes and ordinances, and everything in the settlement agreement,” Mayor Sam Seevers said. “If they do that, then they can open.”
“The staff will do a very thorough job of making sure this business, much like any other, meets all of our criteria,” she added.
Councilman Jim Bagby said the city should consider a few factors and how they relate to the settlement.
“I’m not sure that location would allow them to do it,” he said. “I think that the closeness to parks is something that we have to look at.”
Councilman Jim Wood declined to comment on the proposal until plans are in place. Councilwoman Sandy Trammell did not return a call seeking comment.
All city leaders can do now is wait for the process to move forward.
“We don’t have a legal club in our hands to deal with this,” Williges said.
Destin Log Staff Writer Matt Algarin can be reached at 850-654-8446 or malgarin@thedestinlog.com. Follow him on Twitter @DestinLogMatt.