West Hollywood : Disco License Renewed

The business license has been renewed for a popular disco that was the focus of controversy last year after dozens of neighbors complained of being awakened at night by its young patrons.

Only two residents expressed opposition last week as the Business License Commission voted to renew the license of Peanuts, 7969 Santa Monica Blvd., which caters mostly to young adults.

Several commissioners said they were pleased with owner Josh Feld’s efforts to reduce noise and other problems there. For years, residents living near the disco complained of being awakened late at night by screaming, loud radios and drunken brawls involving patrons.

Last year, the commission voted to ban minors from the disco as a condition of renewing its licenses to permit dancing and serve food. The City Council overturned the decision after Feld argued that it would result in the loss of 60% of his clientele.

In November, a judge dismissed assault charges against a doorman at the club who was accused in 1987 of attacking a Los Angeles County sheriff’s deputy during an undercover operation there.

Feld last year accused sheriff’s deputies of harassing his customers in retaliation for the incident, something Sheriff’s Department officials denied.