Clearly, Ward 6 Councilmember Tommy Wells no longer wants to shut down Ibiza nightclub. Wells and Ibiza co-owner Eric Clay issued a joint statement today pledging to work together to improve public safety in NoMa.
Wells had previously called for Ibiza and neighboring nightclub Fur to close in the wake of Monday morning’s drive-by shooting near the nightclubs. Later, the councilmember softened on the idea, telling Washington City Paper, “Maybe I’m overreacting.”
In today’s statement, Clay says Ibiza was closed for business on Sunday night. He adds, “I know we have a responsibility to help maintain a safe community; not only for our patrons inside and out of our establishment, but for our surrounding neighborhood as well.” Wells says, “I look forward to continuing to work with [Clay] and appreciate his support as we work together to improve public safety for everyone.”
Police have not found any connection between either Ibiza or Fur and the shooting that injured 13 people. Wells’ chief of staff says the councilmember’s office has attempted to reach the owners of Fur, but has not received a response.
Read the statement sent by Wells’ office this afternoon:
(Washington, D.C.) — Following the Monday morning shooting of 13 residents on North Capitol Street in Ward 6, Councilmember Tommy Wells has discussed public safety, the Metropolitan Police Department’s hard work to identify those responsible for this violence, and the importance of ensuring safe streets for all residents. He has met with Eric Clay, co-owner of Ibiza Club located in NoMa on 1st Street NE, whose establishment was actually closed for business the night of the incident, and they have issued the following joint statement.
“Tommy Wells is right. It doesn’t matter whether you’re walking home two blocks from a club, a restaurant or your church—-all residents should have an expectation of getting home safely,” stated Mr. Clay.
Added Mr. Clay, “As a business owner in a growing community such as NoMa, I know we have a responsibility to help maintain a safe community; not only for our patrons inside and out of our establishment, but for our surrounding neighborhood as well. The vision that Tommy Wells has called for is exactly that—-not just for Ward 6, but citywide. What happened Monday morning is a tragedy and I am committed to working with him, MPD and our neighborhood partners to continue improving safety for our neighbors and community.”
Councilmember Tommy Wells stated, “I appreciate Mr. Clay’s approach and leadership. He recognizes the role we all play in creating safe streets and livable neighborhoods for every resident. I look forward to continuing to work with him and appreciate his support as we work together to improve public safety for everyone.”
Photo by Darrow Montgomery