A group seeking a special exceptions permit for a late night entertainment center at the former Rock and Country Club in Brainerd asked a two-week deferral on the request.
Officials of Paisa Inc. did so after being told by City Council members that the project will likely not go forward unless a sprinkler system is put in and there is noise-obscuring landscaping installed at the back of the parking lot.
Attorney Wes Kliner said he was hired recently by members of the Munoz family to help get the permit.
He said the group has carried out an extensive renovation at the club, including installing double doors to help curb the noise. He said there is a sprinkler system over the cooking area.
He said the group plans to hire two security officers up until 11 p.m. and then have 5-7 from 11 p.m. to 3 a.m.
The club can now operate until 11. It will need the special permit to stay open until 3 a.m. and serve alcohol during that time.
City officials said the club lost its "grandfather" status because it was closed for more than 100 days, and thus would need to get a sprinkler system now.
Attorney Bruce Hankinson, who represents property owner Bobby Massey, disagreed that the club was closed as much as 100 days.
He said the Munoz family has been tenants since 2008 when the operation "moved from country to salsa."
He said the family initially spent over $75,000 on improvements at the location and recently spent up to $150,000 more.
Attorney Hankinson said Mr. Massey is now 77 years old and money from the club is his only source of income. He said he has owned the property 40-50 years.