BUFFALO, N.Y. (WBEN).......A dispute between two Chippewa Street venues that resulted in one stabbing has proven to be enough for Mayor Sean Ryan to shut down the Cowboy bar and issue a warning to all bar owners and operators of Chippewa Street establishments that anyone caught violating a city ordinance will face consequences including a complete shut down.
"We are changing gears now,: Ryan said.
Chippewa Street has been one of the primary downtown focal points for Ryan since taking office in January. The issue became one of the center points for Ryan after a series of violent weekends marked by shootings and other forms of violence.
Just for beefing up a police presence for two July weekends cost Buffalo more than $1 million.
Since then, Buffalo police have increased their presence on weekends and other busy nights, portions of Chippewa Street have been closed to vehicular traffic on weekends and Buffalo has cracked down on parking lot owners and bar owners including installing co-mingling limits and restrictions.
Still, the stabbing incident was a major step backwards, Ryan admitted.
"There is a negative ripple effect," Ryan said.
In the incident, Cowboy owner Alfred Castricone, 72, allegedly stabbing a worker at a nearby Chippewa Street restaurant. The victim was treated and released while Castricone was charged with second degree assault with a weapon and criminal possession of a weapon.
The bigger issue, Ryan said. are some bar owners who are ignoring the co-mingling restrictions and allowing patrons under the age of 21 in their establishments. Co-mingling permits mandate the event must conclude by 10 p.m.
"What bothers me is that there are some bar owners who are blatantly ignoring our ordinances and laws," Ryan said.
Ryan wants Chippewa Street to return to the days when it had a more inviting vibe with a mix of bars and restaurants.
The mayor is concerned because after 10 p.m., especially on weekends, it takes on a less-than-welcoming experience.
"We need to change the culture of Chippewa," Ryan said.
Ryan said several bars are either under investigation, or have been investigated, and depending on findings may find the license to operate revoked. Ryan declined to identify the bars.
"Several (bar owners) have no interest in complying," Ryan said. "We will crack down on those operators."
Bars in violation of city ordinances will be shut down, Mayor Ryan says
Bars in violation of city ordinances will be shut down, Mayor Ryan says
