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Published on 11/06/1995 All articles from this issue

Armadillo Willy's expansion gets OK from council

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By Joanne Griffith Domingue / Town Crier Staff Writer

Los Altos City Council members sent a positive message to local businesses Oct. 30 when they voted 4-1 to approve the proposed expansion plans of Armadillo Willy's restaurant on San Antonio Road.

Even though the plans met all city building codes, did not request any variances and had received unanimous approval of the Los Altos Planning Commission, six residents spoke against the expansion at the Council meeting.

"Expansion will squeeze an already squeezed area for parking," said Harold Davis, property manager for some of the business near Armadillo Willy's. "Some properties must adjust their rent down to admit the limited parking."

Brian Johnson, proprietor of Fermentation Frenzy, a business near Armadillo Willy's, said he wants to see more parking rather than more demands on existing parking.

In addition to the six people who spoke against the expansion, eight others, including five past presidents of the Los Altos Chamber of Commerce, urged Council to vote for the restaurant growth.

"We're here to support John, (Berwald, owner of Armadillo Willy's)" said Jim Reynolds, immediate past president of the Chamber. "If we have rules and someone follows them, they have a right to move ahead. Waiting costs money."

Berwald plans to expand into the building next to the existing restaurant, once occupied by Leslie's Swimming Pool Supplies. This will add 48 new seats, 22 of which will be in a banquet area.

The plans also include parking improvements as well as remodeling the building at 994 Acacia Ave. , which will serve as an office for the restaurant's catering business.

"Our city goes out and brings in business from strangers," said Mary Prochnow. "We need to support our existing businesses and send a positive message."

John McAlister, commmenting on the location, said, "This area generates more money per capita than any other area in town."

Council member Dave Reeder supported the plans.

"If we start denying applications which meet all codes, we send a message of inconsistency," Reeder said. "Armadillo Willy's is one of the top 25 sales tax generators in town. They don't deserve special attention. But they should be able to count on consistent attention."

Mayor Bob Gray disagreed. He cited concerns for public safety and for other businesses in the area.

"I would like the project held up to consider all the problems," Gray said.

After the 4-1 vote in favor of the expansion, Berwald said he was ecstatic.

"All my friends who came and spoke - I was humbled by that."