Residents at the June 10 East Torresdale Civic Association meeting received an update on the ongoing litigation involving Maggie’s Waterfront Cafe.
Nearly a year ago, the Zoning Board of Adjustment ruled that Maggie’s would be allowed to operate an outdoor patio. ETCA appealed the decision, and, in April, a judge sided with neighbors and reversed the ZBA’s decision.
Maggie’s owner Kevin Goodchild and his attorneys promptly appealed and took the case to Commonwealth Court.
ETCA Vice President Bill Kennedy read an email at last week’s meeting from Commissioner David Perri of the Department of Licenses and Inspections.
In it, the L&I chief said Maggie’s has filed a motion to suspend the lower court’s ruling while the case is under review in Commonwealth Court. Meanwhile, inspectors were out and issued new zoning violations to the bar on May 22.
L&I is waiting for a judge to rule on the motion to stay, and, depending on that decision, may issue a cease operations order if Maggie’s is still out of compliance, according to the email read by Kennedy.
An L&I spokesperson confirmed that the email accurately reflects the department’s understanding of the situation.
Outdoor seating has been one of many sticking points over the years between neighbors and Maggie’s.
ETCA’s successful appeal in April hinged on a 2014 agreement with Goodchild relating to a zoning variance that allowed Maggie’s to expand at its 9242 N. Delaware Ave. location. A proviso was put in place at that time specifically prohibiting outdoor dining.
In other news from last week’s ETCA meeting:
There was a lengthy discussion about a zoning application to build a three-bedroom house at 5021 Fitler St. on a previously subdivided lot. Residents voted 18-16 at May’s meeting to oppose a permit for the project
A neighbor who attended the May 22 ZBA hearing on the issue said the board did not approve the project. Instead, the ZBA held the decision and asked the applicant, Nicholas Pody, to submit additional plans and drawings.
Near neighbors are concerned about increased flooding from the project and the addition of another home onto their private sewer line.
The next movie night at Pleasant Hill Park will be held Thursday, July 18. Brave will be shown at dusk.
The Philadelphia Fire Department is in the process of recruiting firefighters, and the application period will be open until July 26. Those interested should go to www.phila.gov/fire, call 215-686-0880 or email pfd.recruitment@phila.gov.
ETCA is looking to attract new members, and there are multiple spots available on the board. Last week’s meeting was the last for Kennedy as vice president and zoning chairman.
The next ETCA meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, July 9, at 7 p.m. at Liberty Free Evangelical Church, Milnor Street and Linden Avenue. ••
