After learning more about the Cukoo's nest and the amount of events they plan to hold there (their web page states that it's available for private rentals) it just seems like a crazy idea to allow this club to continue to function in a residential neighborhood. The noise factors alone have not been addressed, nor have the parking issues. The operators seems squirrelly and dishonest. The fact that they've been hosting parties and renting out the space for the past couple of years and skirting the permit process seems reason enough for the City to deny them a permit. I'm sure the operators can find a more suitable location for their 'nest.

Seems as though they are diluting their brand by allow the riffraff from Linfield Oaks and downtown north Palo Alto to join the exclusive club!

The story overlooks the fact that the a C1-zoned business has been illegally operating a club for the last 18 months or so, hosting events that have disturbed hundreds of neighbors. And that even without a liquor license, as a private club they can serve alcohol, just not sell it. Here's what else they have to offer, according to their website:

"...Regional Wine Tastings and special presentations from fashion to food, from craft beer tastings to the Arts, peppered with live music to book signings."

It's not a "threat," but for many good reasons, a private club with evening events does not belong in a residential neighborhood. The city has received over 100 complaints from neighbors in both Palo Alto and Menlo Park. Why even entertain this application? It's not a permitted use, and the city can and should say no.

Seems strange that a business has been operating in a "residentialy zoned area" for all this time. Is this a case of residential zoning being adjacent to residential zoning or an actual violation of our zoning ordinance?

Goodbye Cookoo's Nest, nice knowing you, should have had a drink together while you were here......

Time for the steel-toed construction boot of our Planning Department to start kicking.

I think people are overlooking the fact that there are numerous businesses in this area including the willows market which hosts outdoor events, music, food trucks, etc. I think the city of Menlo Park should set a precedent that our city is startup and business friendly. Interfering with a private business that is bringing lots of startups and employment opportunities to our community is anti-American and not very smart. More business, more employment = more revenue for the city = more services for our residents.

@Bill:
* They are not in compliance with city zoning.
* [part removed.]
* They seem to think they can ignore the rules.

I fail to see the connection between operating a private gentleman's club and bringing jobs to our city. As for "anti-American" -- we still live in a society that respects individual rights. Why should a private club be given carte blanche to violate those?

Menlo Park is home to many startups, but this is the only one that doesn't seem to know how to behave properly. Maybe they need to get in line instead of expecting the rules to change for them.

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