LAKE FOREST : 2 Cleared to Vote on Topless Club Permit

The state Fair Political Practices Commission has told two of three City Council members that they have no conflict of interest and may vote on a permit request from a proposed topless cabaret.

The potential conflicts delayed a public hearing two weeks ago on whether Mark Bailey will be allowed to operate a strip club at 20562 Regency Lane. Three members of the council had indicated that they might not be free to vote on the issue.

With the FPPC clearing Councilwoman Helen Wilson, the hearing will go on tonight as scheduled. More than 100 residents are expected to appear at the meeting to oppose the adult entertainment venue.

However, on Sunday afternoon Lake Forest city officials were not sure whether Kathryn McCullough, whose church is close to the cabaret site, will be able to vote.

In a letter to City Atty. Jerry Patterson, the FPPC indicated that Wilson, who lives near the proposed adult strip joint, is not violating conflict laws and can vote on the issue.

Councilman Peter Herzog, who also lives in the area of the proposed strip club, was also cleared by the FPPC.

However, city officials said that the FPPC’s position on McCullough is unclear and that Patterson is researching whether she should vote.

The delay of the March 6 public hearing disappointed a large turnout of citizens, most of whom promised to return tonight.

Bailey is appealing the denial of a permit for the club by City Manager Gaylord Knapp. Lake Forest currently has a temporary ordinance in place banning adult businesses until a permanent law can be drafted.

Lawyers representing Bailey tried to overturn the temporary ordinance last year but were unsuccessful. Bailey also owns Captain Cream’s, a strip club on Lake Forest Boulevard.