Mayor Fey addresses adult entertainment in Central City – The Mountain-Ear

Mayor Fey

Mayor Jeremy Fey sat down for an interview on May 27, 2024, to address the contentious issue of sexually-oriented businesses (SOBs) potentially operating in Central City. This topic emerged on the agenda at the last Central City Council meeting on May 21, but was postponed pending further legal advice.

Residents have expressed concerns that such businesses could hinder future development, increase crime rates, damage Central City’s reputation, reduce property values, and strain law enforcement resources. Fey has been engaging with community members and discussed the matter with The Mountain-Ear.

The Mayor explained that the current zoning regulations, which prohibit SOBs within 500 feet of gathering places, churches, or residences, were created in anticipation of gaming in the early 90s.

However, these regulations are not compliant with Supreme Court First Amendment rulings, which state that such businesses cannot be outright banned or regulated in a manner that effectively prevents their operation.

According to Fey, while SOBs are theoretically allowed in the Historic Gaming District, zoning restrictions currently prohibit them.

One proposal at the meeting was to rewrite the code to permit SOBs in the industrial zone along the parkway near the Young Ranch Quarry. He noted that this would comply with the law by allowing a potential location, though it is unlikely that an SOB would choose to develop there.

Eric Langan, the CEO, president, and chairman of RCI Hospitality Holdings, Inc., spoke at the last Council meeting. RCI Hospitality, a publicly traded company primarily involved in adult entertainment, has been a significant point of discussion.

Fey stressed Langan’s investment in Central City, including owning a house in the area and changing his voter registration to Central City. He praised Langan as a straight-forward communicator.

When asked about the potential impact of SOBs on local crime, Fey acknowledged that while any predictions are speculative, he trusts Sheriff Armstrong and his team to maintain order. He said that he doesn’t believe SOBs would lead to rampant lawlessness in Central City.

Fey pointed out that crime is generally correlated with population density and admitted that certain businesses can attract more crime.

“We already have those businesses that lead to crime. I thought Todd Williams did a good job at the last meeting of explaining that to people. I don’t know if explaining anything right now matters. It’s such an emotionally charged issue,” shared Fey.

Fey acknowledged that most residents are strongly opposed to SOBs but suggested that people are typically more passionate about opposing things than supporting them.

Fey will host four public meetings at the Elks Lodge in Central on May 28, 29, June 2 and 3, inviting residents to discuss the issue. He has extended invitations through social media and direct outreach to businesses and residents.

Discussing the intersection of commerce and culture in Central City, Fey noted that the commerce on Main Street funds the cultural activities on Eureka Street.

He has been involved with the Gilpin Arts Association since moving to the area and emphasized the importance of the City’s support for the association.

He came to Central City for the culture, arts, and entertainment and soon realized that the casino tax revenue was the only path to sustaining the arts.

His goals include furthering the infrastructure and municipal services through economic growth; and his main objective: a state-of-the-art firehouse and department.

Fey shared his personal experiences with strip clubs, stating that he does not particularly enjoy them but acknowledged visiting them occasionally as a young man in the 90s.

RCI also owns PT’s Showclub in Denver, a venue with historical ties to Fey’s family, as his parents once owned PT’s and transformed it into the Family Dog, a short-lived but iconic concert venue that hosted acts like Janis Joplin, Jimi Hendrix, and the Doors.

Langan is currently renovating a property at 130 Main Street and awaiting approval for a gaming license.

The Planning Commission suggested in 2022 to allow SOBs in the area and adjust the 500-foot restriction to 150 feet, making 130 Main Street the only viable location.

Fey shared that he has faced accusations, attacks, and threats from residents and supposed friends over this issue.

He has questioned his motivations and sought guidance from his rabbi, reflecting on whether his desire for economic development was influencing his stance. Despite the backlash, Fey believes this experience will make him a better leader and politician.

He aimed to dispel the notion that Central City is a family-friendly-only destination, pointing out its numerous 21-and-up establishments like casinos, liquor stores, and dispensaries. He referenced the town’s history, including “Whore’s Bridge,” the Gilpin History Society’s risque logo, and Madam Lou Bunch Days, an event honoring the town’s last madam.

Fey also mentioned that Langan is negotiating a multi-million dollar investment in the opera, which includes five commercial buildings and 22 homes in town that are vacant for most of the year.

The issue will next be discussed at the June 18 City Council meeting, as legal guidance could not be obtained before the June 4 meeting.