New Scottish Bar Draws Controversy in Cloverdale

by Ellis Eskew

A bar in the Cloverdale entertainment district is getting opposition from a neighboring bar owner.

Mike Watson tells us about his latest venture in bringing “Graham Woods” pub to Cloverdale.
But when he went to apply for his liquor license, he was met with opposition from two doors down.
Doug Gurney, the owner of “1048 Jazz and Blues” nightclub, who didn’t want to talk to us on camera, says Watson is in violation of several laws.

Those alleged violations include: the safety of the building with exposed wires and inadequate plumbing, serving alcohol to minors in the past, and the patio readily visible from a church.

The church in question is a church that has recently appeared on 1048’s property between the two establishments within the past few weeks.
 
But Watson says he’s not bothered by the complaints.

“We don’t place a lot of stock in the comments that were made. Most dealt with the quality of the building and the operation adjacent to what is now a new church next door. But we certainly know we can live by all requirements,” said Watson.

City Councilman Arch Lee suggested the council wait two weeks to look over the complaints Gurney brought before them.

“There are some valid concerns, Watson’s got a few other bars here. Some allegations made, some ongoing issues with the ABC board. We’ll look into that,” said Lee.

In the meantime, Watson says he is not worried about getting his license.

“I would certainly assume the motive behind it is fear of competition and misunderstanding that the critical mass of businesses in this neighborhood are going to do nothing but enhance each others businesses,” said Watson.

Watson says if he does get his license and everything is up to code, he expects to open “Graham Woods” in 4 to 6 weeks.