By Michael Morton
The store, located at 98-04 Springfield Blvd., had not yet satisfied the DEP's review of the facility's sewage connections to the city's main lines, according to the spokesman.
“We have to see if waste lines from the building are going to overtax the sewage system,” the spokesman said, adding that the department had not yet conclusively determined that the store would cause such a problem. In general, when facilities overtax the system, they must meet additional requirements.
The news came as a victory of sorts for state Assemblywoman Barbara Clark (D-Queens Village), who has been a vocal opponent of the store. While acknowledging the shop does not violate any local zoning laws, she thinks it is inappropriate for the block, a mixture of residences and businesses that includes a church with a daycare facility.
She said the store, where live chickens would be butchered, would be unbearably smelly for its neighbors and attract rats and other vermin. Clark has been joined in her opposition by other community leaders and many area residents and business leaders.
Community leaders identified the store owner as Sheik Anis of Queens Village. He could not be reached for comment.
But at the shop, his brother, who declined to give a name, said Monday Anis had done nothing wrong and had applied for all the proper permits. He said all the equipment for the store was installed and his brother was just waiting for the final go-ahead.
According to DEP, the sewage connections are just one of the many features that the city Buildings Department checks for before it approves a location for operation. The Buildings Department could not be reached for comment.
The spokesman for the DEP said the poultry store could still address the sewer connections and obtain the department's approval. But regardless of the outcome, Clark vowed to keep fighting.
“I'm adamant and the community is adamant,” she said. “Everybody is resolute that this will be a disaster for the community.”
Reach reporter Michael Morton by e-mail at news@timesledger.com or by calling 718-229-0300, Ext. 154.
