Council to Consider Nightclub Proposal

The Moorpark City Council is scheduled to weigh in tonight on a controversial proposal to allow the operators of El Rodeo Restaurant to add music, dancing and drinking to their establishment.

Some residents are concerned that allowing the restaurant, located on the north side of High Street near Moorpark Avenue, to operate a nightclub with live entertainment will create an unsavory atmosphere in the old downtown area.

But proponents of the plan contend that the changes could breathe some life into High Street, which has been losing business for years and which the council has been planning to revitalize for more than a decade.

The City Council is scheduled to decide tonight whether to grant the owners of the restaurant a conditional-use permit to create a nightclub and serve alcohol. The city’s Planning Commission rejected a similar proposal in June, citing concerns over the eatery’s ability to handle large crowds, noise and parking problems.

Local police are also worried the changes would increase crime in the area. In addition, the Moorpark Community Church submitted a petition signed by 56 people who oppose the project. The Baptist church is located a block north of High Street on Charles Street.

“Not only is this business going to be too close to a house of worship, but it is very bad for our downtown area,” church officials wrote in a letter to the city. “If a pawn shop was not appropriate for our downtown area, then a nightclub is certainly in poor taste.”

Meanwhile, supporters of the restaurant’s plans have collected 96 signatures on a petition titled, “Revive High St.”

“In our opinions the expansion will not distress the safety of the community,” the petition states. “In contrast it will be a benefit.”

The council meeting begins at 7 p.m. at 799 Moorpark Ave.