LGBT Activists Demand Preservation For Vacant Eagle Tavern In SF
SAN FRANCISCO (KCBS)— LGBT activists stopped a San Francisco Supervisors Committee on Monday from approving a liquor license that would have allowed a new bar to set up business at the site of the old Eagle Tavern.
The popular South of Market LGBT leather bar closed its doors last April to the dismay of members of the community who mourned the loss.
The routine permit hearing was overwhelmingly interrupted by those who don't want the bar to re-open as a "straight establishment" in the future. Supervisors Scott Wiener and David Campos said it would be a huge loss to the gay community.
Others spoke out saying that it wasn't just any gay bar, but that it was one with international appeal.
Many had hoped that it would somehow re-open or be replaced by another leather bar.
Emotions ran high when the Supervisors' City Operations Committee considered transferring the bar to a group of investors who own several bars and restaurants including Foreign Cinema, Vessel, and Show Dogs.
Some of the people present who want a new bar in the vacant space were just as vocal about bringing in a new business.
One man said the space at 12th and Harrison was on his bike ride home from work and that he'd love for a new place to open so he could stop by after work.
KCBS' Barbara Taylor Reports:
Another woman who voiced her opinion said she was relieved that there could be a space truly about community and that everyone would be welcome.
With all the nostalgia about the old Eagle Tavern and its leather cliental, the committee continued the liquor license request until late September telling the owners to go out and get more community support if they want to push forward with their plan for a new bar.
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