FQNA Board, Residents, Meet with Pearlz

The FQNA Board was joined by several members of the Association last night (Wednesday) in the boardroom of First Federal for a meeting with representatives of Pearlz Oyster Bar, seeking a variance from provisions of the Limited Business zoning restrictions governing its establishment on East Bay Street.
Those provisions require Pearlz to discontinue serving at 11pm. State Alcoholic Beverage controls otherwise permit serving until 2am, and Charleston permits that later closing time in business zones with fewer restrictions.
Pearlz had been serving until 2am, contending they were unaware that they were obligated under the law to close at 11.
It was a “meeting of the minds” set up in an attempt to reach a mutually-agreeable decision about how Pearlz might address the concerns expressed by many FQ’ers that allowing later serving could deepen problems with drunkenness, vandalism and crime.
Pearlz representatives contended their clientele was more mature and desireable than many of the noisier bars in the vicinity that cater to the college crowd. They also contended that they served meals until near the 2am closing hour
FQNA Board Chairman Jerry Keynard said it was in the Association’s best interests to hear the position of the Pearlz representatives because it could put the association in a good position to negotiate for stronger regulations in the future. He also said city officials expect neighborhood associations to discuss issues such as this, and to advise officials on an agreeable course of action.
The chief bone of contention was the 2am closing hour and residents’ belief that, as the night wears on, most patrons would be drinkers only – not ordering food. Pearlz representatives contended that was untrue, that late-hour revenue was nearly equal between liquor and food.
State Street resident Woody Rash asked Pearlz representatives if they would be willing to agree to a closing hour after 11, but before 2am. The answer to that question was “no.”
Chairman Keynard said the board would work with Pearlz on the wording of a proposed agreement that would spell out expectations on both sides—those of the neighborhood association and the bar/restaurant.
We hope to be able to publish that proposed agreement when it is reached.