By Beth Burger
A Hixson bar that has received numerous complaints of noise, gunfire and illicit drug use had its beer license revoked this morning in a unanimous vote by the Chattanooga Beer and Wrecker Board.
Fireside Lounge, at 4021 Hixson Pike, had police respond to the club a total of 41 times in the past six months, according to police.
James Teligades, owner of Fireside, said he plans to appeal the decision.
“Basically, I’m out of business,” he said. “Obviously I’m being railroaded.”
Nearly 20 nearby residents at Forest Plaza neighborhood signed a petition urging the board to revoke the license.
Paul Payne, a resident, who has contacted authorities when incidents arise at the club, clutched bullet casings in his hand that he found near the club as he spoke to the board.
“Here’s some of the proof of it right here,” he said. “We’re concerned about the situation. It’s only going to escalate. … What’s more important – revenue and taxes or someone’s life?”
On Jan. 25, police responsed to a call of shots fired. When officers arrived on scene, 50 to 75 people were leaving the club, according to police reports. When entering the bar, police found ash trays containing marijuana.
Since the incident, Teligades said he increased security and also posted a sign, reading, “No weed smoking inside you will be asked to leave. Police will be called.”
For more on this story, read Friday’s Chattanooga Times Free Press.