Cape council denies special use permit

A proposed special use permit for a gourmet coffee distributor brewed strong neighborhood opposition, prompting the Cape Girardeau City Council to deny the request Monday night.

The council voted 7-0 to deny a special-use permit to Curtis and Carol Greer.

The Greers currently operate a gourmet coffee distributorship from their home at 329 Edgewood. Curtis Greer told the council he wanted a special use permit which would allow him to get into the retail business, selling coffee to employees at area businesses.

The Planning and Zoning Commission twice recommended the city deny the request, saying it would adversely affect the residential neighborhood.

Greer said he doesn't plan to open a coffee shop in his home.

Pat Patterson, who operates a photography studio in the neighborhood, urged the council to grant the special-use permit. He said it wouldn't cause a traffic problem on the residential street.

But several neighbors objected to the proposed business.

"My main concern is it may bring down property values," said Kathie Haupt of 318 Edgewood.

Faye Schreiner, 326 Edgewood, said she and her neighbors have had past disputes with the Greers and don't want the Greers to operate a business near their homes.

"No, we don't want it," she told the council.

In denying a special use permit, council members singled out neighborhood opposition.

"I personally would have no problem with the Greers living next to me," Councilman Jay Purcell said. But he said he would vote against it because of the objections.

Councilwoman Evelyn Boardman called it "one of the hardest votes to come before the council."

The council had received petitions supporting and opposing the permit request.

Councilman Charlie Herbst said 14 property owners opposed the request and eight supported it.

Councilwoman Marcia Ritter said she hopes the neighborhood dispute won't linger. "I am hoping this neighborhood will come back together," she said.

In other action, the council granted a special-use permit for a proposed RV park at 1900 N. Kingshighway. But council members failed to agree on a new ordinance governing how long a travel trailer could be parked in an RV park.

Current city regulations allow a maximum of 14 days. But the council said that's too short.

City manager Doug Leslie recommended the city allow 90-day occupancy, but Councilman Matt Hopkins suggested a time frame of one year.

The council rejected Hopkins' motion on a 4-3 vote.

The council then tabled the issue for further study.

mbliss@semissourian.com

335-6611, extension 123