The proposed new entertainment complex is located in an area known for frequent after-hours unrest, but its owners and the Lodi Police Department say the new addition to downtown will not add fuel to the fire. I'm sure not.
The Lodi Planning Commission voted 6-0 at Wednesday night's meeting to approve an “arcade bar” use permit and alcohol sales permit at 114 North Sacramento Street.
The facility, which has not yet been named, will feature about 12 arcade games, including pinball, Skee-Ball and four-player Pac-Man, as well as a golf suite for playing virtual or electronic golf. On to Wednesday's staff report.
Because alcohol will be served, only those 21 years of age or older may enter.
Additionally, applicant Armando Rodriguez promised not to allow live music or dancing, staff said.
The Eldorado nightclub is located next door to the north, and city planner Cynthia Marsh said the police department is opposed to moving the arcade into the space because Rodriguez has agreed to limit hours of operation. He said he had not.
Venue hours are Sunday to Thursday from noon to 10pm and Friday and Saturday from noon to midnight.
“Many other stores are open until 2 a.m., and that's when we get a lot of problems with police calls,” she said. “So I was satisfied that the police station would close a little earlier.”
Last summer, police were called to reports that two men in their 20s had been shot at a nightclub. One person died and one person was taken to an area hospital.
At the time of the shooting, the club had received 47 calls for service in the first half of 2023, police said.
Rodriguez's sister Alma spoke for him at the meeting, acknowledging that if a similar incident were to occur at their business, their permit could be revoked.
“We don’t want any problems,” she said. “We just want something fun and safe.”
The committee was satisfied with this proposal because it reduced business hours.
Committee Chairman Mitch Slater said: “This will be a lovely addition to this lovely and livable Lodi.” “I wish you good luck.”
Vice Chair Crystal Hicks was absent from the meeting.