York City Council delays decision on Landis brothers’ liquor license request

The March 19 public hearing concerned a request from Matt and Sean Landis for a liquor license transfer from Springettsbury Township to the former Citizens Bank  building on Continental Square.

The two men, who currently own Fat Daddy’s nightclub in Springettsbury Township, plan to open a late-night entertainment venue at the 1 N. George St. location.

Nicole Davis, interim director of community and development, said that the Landis brothers wish to purchase the building from the city’s Redevelopment Authority Board but they need a liquor license to open a nightclub.

The Landis brothers were not present at the meeting but were represented by their attorney, Erica Townes, of the York-based Barley Snyder law firm.

Townes could not be reached for comment after the meeting.

Ten residents spoke out in favor of the proposed nightclub while five shared concerns over how it would affect the city’s quality of life.

Those who were opposed cited concerns over noise and safety.

York City resident Jerri Worley said that she lives close to the building and is worried about the noise level when large crowds leave late at night.

“What are they going to do about the noise? I don’t think there’s a thing they can do about it,” she said.

City resident Ellen Russell also lives near the proposed site and said she can tolerate the current level of street noise because it usually becomes quiet after 11 p.m.

“This may negatively impact the quality of life in the city. I just don’t think this is the proper venue for a large nightclub,” she said.

Nightclub supporters said it would give people a reason to stay in the city on the weekends and spend their money there.

Scott Harner said he travels with his friends to nearby cities such as Harrisburg and Lancaster because there is more to do.

“You can only sit in a brewpub for so long,” he said.

Other supporters said it could give the local arts community a boost.

Shawn Young, director of music industry and recording technology at York College, said it would give students an opportunity to pursue internships in the music business and hospitality industries.

The council has a maximum of 60 days to approve or reject the application, according to Dianna Thompson-Mitchell, York City clerk. If the council does not act within the approved time period, the license would be automatically approved.