A Pittsfield couple hopes to help revitalize the city with the opening of a new nightclub, pending state ABCC approval of their liquor license.
Donald and Melissa Sweener plan to open “Chameleon’s,” once the Massachusetts Alcoholic Beverages Control Commission signs off on their license application OK’d by the city Licensing Board two months ago, the Berkshire Eagle reports.
While the Sweeners await the ABCC decision, Chameleon’s has developed a loyal following on the Internet, which prompted the owners to host an open house last Friday night in Pittsfield.
“We have 2,200 on Facebook following us, so we decided to show them what we have to offer,” said Melissa Sweener. “We even had a 75-year-old woman having a good time on the dance floor.”
The upscale establishment will focus on a variety of entertainment ranging from Jazz to comedy Tuesday through Sunday nights, at the former Bobby Hudpucker’s Bar & Grill.
Meanwhile, the Licensing Board Wednesday afternoon agreed with city building and fire inspectors that Chameleon’s maximum capacity be downgraded from 240 to 200 patrons, a decision agreeable to the Sweeners.
While Robert Quattrochi, who abstained from the board’s 2-0 vote in December, was satisfied with the change, he expects the Sweeners will find the night club challenging.
“I still think 200 people is a lot for them and their staff to take care of when you have three rooms to watch,” Quattrochi said.
The Sweeners have already hired security comprised of current and former law enforcement professionals they say will help Chameleon’s avoid the pitfalls of other night spots who, along with some of their patrons, run afoul of the law. Total employment will range between 10 and 20 full- and part-timers. The owners also plan to install identification scanners, security cameras and institute a dress code for patrons.
