Put brakes on North York lounge, councillor says
Residents express concerns over plans for Islington Avenue facility
Ward 7 (York West) Councillor Giorgio Mammoliti lists the reasons why he has trouble believing the owner of a North York lounge who says her establishment is a place for children's parties and religious events.
He points to an application from Marlin Archibald to the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario for a liquor licence for the Platinum Lounge in the basement of 2971B Islington Ave., south of Steeles Avenue. The premises would be licensed for 156 people.
In addition, Mammoliti said he carried out a preliminary inspection with city officials and an officer from Toronto Police Service's 31 Division. The tour revealed music speakers about five feet tall and a notice advertising the lounge as a night club, he said.
"When we went for a tour, she (the owner) said she would be catering for children. My question was why a liquor licence? She said not only (for) children so she was changing her tune a bit," Mammoliti said.
"They applied for a liquor licence as a private club and she said 'We only cater to children' so you put two and two together. If it is a night club, we have some problems."
A spokesperson from Platinum Lounge could not be reached for comment Monday, May 12, or Tuesday, May 13.
However, a message on the lounge's voice mail welcomes inquiries.
"Thank you for choosing Platinum Lounge, 2,700-square feet of newly renovated, modernly decorated space," a woman's recorded voice says.
The lounge is available for receptions, christenings, bar mitzvahs, private parties, church services, birthday parties and other gatherings "at extremely competitive rates," the voice mail said.
At Mammoliti's urging, Etobicoke York community councillors last week agreed to fight Platinum Lounge's liquor licence application because it "is not in the public interest having regard to the needs and wishes of the residents."
They want the city's solicitor to take any action necessary to have the application turned down. If it is approved, they want the licence to address concerns about security, staffing, safety, crowd control, noise, litter, proper exits and fire protection.
