A new problem has surfaced for nightclub owner Regas Christou, who already faces past-due property taxes and difficulty in opening a new venue.
Last month, a city zoning inspector ordered him to cease operations at his nightclub The Church, at 1160 Lincoln St. According to the order, the nightclub needs 108 off-street parking spaces to comply with city code. Christou has filed an appeal, and a hearing has been set for June 23.
In the appeal, Christou said he received a variance to the parking requirements on July 3, 2003, and that the variance expired July 1, 2008.
“The applicant will suffer a substantial undue hardship if another variance is not granted,” the appeal states.
He also said in the appeal that a variance would not alter the character of the surrounding area. He further argued that the zoning code is undergoing a revision, which could alter the city’s parking requirements.
The nightclub remains open as the appeal is considered.
Neither Christou nor his lawyer, Adam Stapen, returned telephone messages seeking comment.
Awilda Marquez, director of the Denver Department of Excise and Licenses, is recommending the denial of a liquor- license application for Christou’s City Hall, a proposed entertainment venue at 1144 Broadway.
A hearing is scheduled for May 13 on the City Hall liquor-license application.
Christopher N. Osher: 303-954-1747 or cosher@denverpost.com
