Houstonist: Weingarten begins process for River Oaks demolition

Urban Houstonian

Fri, 11 May 2007 18:01:44 -0600

Let's not split hairs over the strip clubs versus this situation. They really aren't the same, and really encompass two very different situations. Regardless, it is VERY true that this is not a lost cause until the bulldozers show up. Barnes & Noble has not yet signed on to build the River Oaks location. The operative word here is yet. That said, don't forget to also write the B&N brass about these issues. It is my understanding from a B&N employee that their real estate group is very thorough about when and where they build. They can and will pull out of this shopping center if they don't believe it is in their best interests.

'stina

Fri, 11 May 2007 11:31:39 -0600

Why is it that the city spends so much time, effort, and money going after strip clubs, but there's absolutely nothing anyone is willing to do to stop this from happening? They're putting so much effort into shutting down the Men's Club, when to my knowledge, there's no concerted public outcry. But they can't do anything to stop this, when thousands of citizens have voiced their concern over this demolition. If they can pass an ordinance that puts hundreds of businesses out of commission, they can pass an ordinance that protects this landmark.

messdale

Fri, 11 May 2007 10:32:23 -0600

"So what can you do now?" I realize this may be an unpopular idea but the only thing that we can do is buy the property from Weingarten. Otherwise, it's theirs to tear down and build up. Ownership still trumps public sentiment.