A rendering of the proposed bar and restaurant on the northeast corner of Second and Roosevelt streets. – Four Corners
By Sara Crocker | Phoenix New Times
The city of Phoenix clapped back at accusations that “prejudice and political influence” led the Board of Adjustment to block the path to develop Federales, a controversial tacos and tequila spot proposed for Roosevelt Row in downtown.
“The Board ultimately found the neighbors’ concerns more credible than Federales’ business needs,” the city said in a Jan. 5 court filing. “Despite Federales’ vague accusations of undue political influence and suggestion that the decision was based on ‘idle speculation,’ the Board’s decision was clearly based on the evidence before it, as well as their knowledge of the neighborhood’s character and needs.”
The city’s filing in Maricopa County Superior Court is the latest in the battle over whether the Chicago-based chain will get the approvals it needs to move forward with plans for an airy, indoor-outdoor restaurant and bar on the vacant lot at the northeast corner of Second and Roosevelt streets.
