Judge shuts down two local businesses

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — Two local businesses are shutting down, and police say that’s a step in the right direction. Good Times Lounge and Chestnut Market both are shutting their doors.

Police say Good Times Lounge on Dawson Street had a history of complaints and incidents involving weapons. The closure comes at the request of the city and police department filing a civil complaint effectively calling these places a nuisance.

“Wilmington Police officers have responded to calls and complaints at these businesses for a number of years,” Wilmington Police Chief Ralph Evangelous said in a statement. “Today’s judgments are in the best interest of the public, and we appreciate the cooperation of the property owners in bringing these actions to a close. Working together with ALE, the District Attorney’s Office and the surrounding community members and property owners, we are providing a permanent solution for the community.”

What was once Club 609 now sits empty at Market Street and Kerr Avenue because of a very similar situation with the court intervening and shutting the place down. Folks said the neighborhood hasn’t changed all that much.

“I mean, it was a nightclub. As far as the night atmosphere, it might have changed some things, but as far as, you know, businesswise during the day, I don’t see where it has changed anything whether the club was here or not,” Wilmington resident Cliff Waddell said.

The city used the same process to close down the old Rhino Club on Market Street in downtown Wilmington after several problems. Slice of Life expanded its business to the space earlier this year.