District 8 Councilor and Council Vice President Dan Cortell here: The entity known as “Phantom Ventures, LLC” — which previously attempted to operate a strip club at the former King Arthur’s location — has returned to pursue this venture. We’d believed the matter resolved when they withdrew their application before the Licensing Commission for the full slate of licenses King Arthur’s once held, notably including the rare permit for live nude dancing. That withdrawal came, I believe, partly in response to the strong, near-universal resistance from District 8 residents and across our city. I’ve come to believe that same opposition will resurface as they challenge a Zoning Enforcement Officer’s “Occupancy Permit Application Denial.”
This Tuesday, Sept. 1, at 6 p.m., The Chelsea Senior Center (positioned next to City Hall and attached to the Fire Station’s rear) will host Phantom Ventures’ appeal to the Zoning Board of Appeal (ZBA). While the company’s arguments will focus on legal grounds, zoning appeals inherently factor in community sentiment and support from abutters, neighbors and residents — considerations the ZBA must weigh. Community participation remains crucial, just as it proved powerful previously.
Marketed as an “upscale gentleman’s club,” this establishment clearly targets Wynn Casino of Everett patrons and other short-term visitors — not Chelsea residents. The business model offers no tangible benefit to our community or local enterprises, yet threatens to burden Police and municipal services exactly as King Arthur’s did historically. Shouldn’t we instead showcase what actually defines Chelsea to outsiders: our parks, waterfront access and vistas, dining and lodging options, our FBI Headquarters, the Leonard Florence Center for Living, Soldier’s Home, and the forthcoming Silver line — achievements that reflect genuine community pride? Now that we’re rid of this past blight, all feedback I’ve received points to one clear answer: “fblikebutton_button”
I encourage everyone who shares this view to attend Tuesday’s public comment period and voice your position directly to the Zoning Board of Appeals. Those unable to attend should email Zoning Board secretary Paulette at [email protected] to register your opposition.
Your participation in Tuesday’s hearing — and in any subsequent proceedings — is deeply appreciated as we continue opposing this proposal.