Some want Buffalo bars to reconsider their closing hours

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) — Buffalo bars are closing in the wee hours of the morning, but some people would like businesses to reconsider. This comes after three people were shot outside an Elmwood Village bar over the weekend.

There is no news yet of any arrests or charges related to this shooting. However, Buffalo Police Commissioner Joseph Gramaglia is calling on bar owners to remember their obligation to keep patrons safe. He says Buffalo bar owners must weigh their financial gain with the potential liability of staying open past 2 a.m.

We spoke with a bar owner on Buffalo’s west side who says she’s had very few problems staying open until 4 a.m. But for another owner on Franklin Street, it’s not worth it to stay open late and tells us to close at 1:30 or 2 a.m. didn’t hurt business.

“I think all bars need to be on a level playing field and try to make a difference,” said Conor Hawkins, co-owner of Banshee Irish Pub.

But Gabrielle Mattina, owner of The Gypsy Parlor, says: “Why don’t we blame the person who started the problem rather than blaming the owner or the restrictions? It’s like, “No, let’s blame this individual. » Why does a person have to ruin a good time?

“Being able to get their support and buy-in is critical to solving this crime that we often see in entertainment districts,” said Councilman Mitch Nowakowski.

Nowakowski said he would like to take a closer look at nighttime crime statistics with Buffalo police before moving forward.