Restaurant’s Music Permit to Be Reviewed

An ongoing controversy over live entertainment at Via Maria Restaurant will again be addressed by the City Council on Monday.

Officials temporarily revoked the restaurant’s live entertainment permit recently, Mayor Tom Carroll said.

“The permit was pulled after a fight broke out in the parking lot there,” Carroll said. “The City Council will be deciding whether to reinstate that permit.”

The council has been sharply divided on the issue. In July, the council split 3 to 2 in favor of granting a one-year extension of Via Maria’s live entertainment permit.

In that debate, Councilwoman Mary Ann Jones contended that neighbors have suffered long enough because of problems stemming from Via Maria, at 9969 Walker St. near the intersection of Ball Road. She and Councilwoman Gail H. Kerry, who has since retired, voted against extending the music permit for the restaurant.

Some residents have come to council meetings to complain about the restaurant. But supporters of Via Maria have countered that the restaurant is a booster of civic causes and tries to maintain good neighborhood relations.

Nick Eighmy, a member of the Cypress High Athletic Boosters, has said that Via Maria donates “thousands of dollars in food” for Grad Night celebrations at the high school. Last summer he urged the council to continue the live-music permit for Via Maria.

Carroll said he expects considerable debate by the council in reviewing the permit. The council also will discuss possible street improvements for the Lincoln Avenue redevelopment area Monday.

The council’s meeting starts at 7 p.m. in the council chambers, 5275 Orange Ave. Information: (714) 229-6688.