Georgia- Johns Creek is affluent, nicely appointed, and home to multimillion-dollar businesses, but one new company has some residents in the area fuming.
The Love Shack, an adult video and book store, has filed for a business license for a 10,000-square-foot store at Jones Bridge and State Bridge roads. The store would be in the back half of a liquor store, 106 steps from a dance studio, and 157 steps to a subdivision.
“I can’t tell you how many e-mails I’ve gotten on this,” said Johns Creek Mayor-elect Mike Bodker. “People are upset about this. They do not want this in our community.”
Thus far, Fulton County has steadfastly refused to issue a business license to the Love Shack. Fulton County has jurisdiction over Johns Creek until the newly created city’s government becomes operational in December.
John Cornetta [pictured], owner of the Love Shack chain, said he is abiding by all the county’s codes and it still is refusing to give him a business license. He said the store will open with less than 25 percent of its merchandise qualifying as adult material. More than 25 percent adult merchandise qualifies a store as officially adult, and triggers zoning restrictions and other enforcement issues.
“This one I did right,” said Cornetta, whose stores have caused controversy in Gwinnett and Fulton counties. “I followed all the rules. They’re just not giving it to me because they think it would be political suicide.”
He said the bulk of his merchandise will be things like smoking accessories, cigars, games, novelties, candles, incense, lingerie, and shoes. However, the store also will offer thousands of sexually explicit DVDs.
Senior County Attorney Steven Rosenberg is skeptical that the store will comply with the law.
“Based on past performance, we believe he needs zoning for adult use,” Rosenberg said. “We would like for him to comply with the law before he opens.”
Cornetta, who said he signed a 20-year lease three months ago, vowed the Shack will be an upscale establishment.
“To make money, you have to appeal to couples, gays, and single women,” Cornetta said. “They like things clean, neat, pretty, soft and upscale.”
Michael and Kitty Garrison of North Atlanta Dance Academy are aghast that an adult video store might open across the street from them.
“Of all the things that could go there, that’s the worst,” Michael Garrison said. “It’s a direct threat to my business. I’m concerned that when parents come to register, they’ll look over and see a porn shop.”