. . . That the original coffee shop was apparently not economically viable does not allow the zoning variance to be changed without following the proper procedures . . .
BZA — Whole Foods
Liquor store in former Putnam Cafe
Dear BZA Members:
I write in support of the Inspectional Services Commissioner's decision that Whole Foods must obtain a variance before being allowed to sell alcohol in what formerly was the Putnam Cafe. The Putnam Cafe was allowed as part of the original zoning variance that allowed the Bread and Circus at this spot in the first place, and to change that part of the zoning relief requires the proper process, to include notice, a public hearing, finding of relevant facts and so forth would be improper. That the original coffee shop was apparently not economically viable does not allow the zoning variance to be changed without following the proper procedures. Furthermore, allowing the liquor store without a new variance would create confusion among the general public about how much protection is provided by even the most tightly crafted zoning variances and would likely have negative repercussions on future zoning discussions for a wide variety of projects.
Whole Foods should obtain a relevant variance before seeking a permission to sell alcohol at the site of the former Putnam Cafe.
If you have any questions about this letter, please feel free to contact me at any time.
Sincerely,
Craig Kelley
Cambridge City Council
6 St. Gerard Terrace
Cambridge, MA 02140
617-354-8353 (home)
617-349-4280 (Council office)