Zoning board takes no action in Internet-cafe proposal

Youngstown’s restrictive policy on the location of Internet-cafe-sweepstakes businesses will likely prohibit the opening of one on East Midlothian Boulevard, city officials said.

But the city’s board of zoning appeals chose today to not decide on the proposal based on the advice of city Law Director Iris Torres Guglucello, a board member.

Instead, the board voted to “take the matter under advisement” and give a written decision at its next meeting, March 15.

Board members acknowledge a law approved Oct. 20, 2010, by city council doesn’t leave them much room but to reject the proposal.

An Internet cafe is a business that permits customers to buy Internet time and go on websites to play sweepstakes games of chance. Those who win the games receive money or prizes.

The city’s law prohibits such businesses from operating within 500 feet of any church, school, library, playground, public park or private residence.

The Midlothian Boulevard building is within 500 feet of at least 10 houses.

For the complete story, read Wednesday’s Vindicator and Vindy.com