The ZBA approved Pinkberry last night

[ron_newman]

according to two city officials who replied to my e-mail (George Proakis and Amie Hayes).

I don't have any details as to why the Zoning Board of Appeals changed their mind from last year, or what might have been different about this year's application compared to last year's. ETA: George Proakis told me:

The applicant provided substantial information to the ZBA to establish how the particular use is unique and how this entity meets a need that is different than that which is currently provided in Davis Square. That seemed to resonate with the board.

I should also note that nobody spoke in opposition at the hearing.

Comments

[francescadavis.livejournal.com]

I don't really understand why people are grumpy about a third frozen yogurt place but okay with the World of Beer? College students hopped up on sugar are better than college students vomiting in the streets in my humble opinion. The argument for World of Beer has been "free enterprise." So let it ride...froyo, beer and burritos. But seriously, while I've got your attention...why not more interesting retail or other interesting daytime storefronts? How do we support independent, small business that will make our square interesting in the daytime and at night? Don't slay me...just wondering out loud.

[ron_newman]

Which people are "grumpy about a third frozen yogurt place but okay with the World of Beer" ?

[francescadavis.livejournal.com]

I suppose I'm combining Patch comments with LiveJournal. But generally the vibe is okay with World of Beer and not so much with Pinkberry. "Free Enterprise" was mentioned often in relation to World of Beer.

[ron_newman]

Perhaps, but my impression is that people who oppose redundant chains oppose them consistently.

[fefie.livejournal.com]

I don't think these two establishments bring anything unique to Davis Sq. Too bad Davis Sq seems unable to support additional retail anymore apart from vintage clothing.

I'm curious, from George Proakis' comments to you, how Pinkberry established "how the particular use is unique and how this entity meets a need that is different than that which is currently provided in Davis Square." Anyone know?

I like froyo, but I hate to see it becoming like the burrito wave of a few years ago. I wish these redundant places would open up in Magoun Sq., which badly needs more businesses.

[ron_newman]

Since I wasn't at the meeting, all I have to go on is the planning staff recommendation, which says:

The addition of another yogurt parlor in Davis Square will add more variety to the existing options as the Pinkberry concept is to offer tart yogurt flavors that are fat free milk based and kosher. In addition to yogurt, Pinkberry offers breakfast/probiotic options, custom smoothies, fresh seasonal fruit, fruit bowls, and catering options.

[ron_newman]

I haven't found the Patch article. Could you link to it here, please?

[mindstalk.livejournal.com]

People here were unhappy with World of Beer as well.

I've been more "it's not the city's business" but I'd apply that to Beer and Froyo equally.