Divided Council OKs Restaurant Live Music

Despite reports of late-night noise and increased police calls at a Walker Street restaurant, a divided City Council has approved the eatery’s request to continue offering live music for its customers.

Councilwomen Gail H. Kerry and Mary Ann Jones strenuously objected to allowing Via Maria Restaurant, 9969 Walker St., another year of bands and other live entertainment. But Mayor Walter K. Bowman, Councilman Tom Carroll and Councilwoman Cecilia L. Age supported the request.

Bowman said the restaurant has been cooperating with police to cut down complaints. And Carroll said the new, one-year permit granted the restaurant “can be revoked at any time.”

Residents who testified at a public hearing Monday night were also divided on the issue. Two residents spoke against the restaurant’s request, and two in favor.

Nick Eighmy, former president of the Cypress High Athletic Boosters, was one of those supporting the restaurant’s request. Eighmy said Via Maria has given support to community projects, including the “donation of thousands of dollars in food for [high school] Grad Night.”

Two residents who live near the restaurant, however, said the live music has disrupted their neighborhood.

The council in June 1995 granted Via Maria a one-year conditional-use permit for live entertainment. The issue this week was whether to renew it.