Title
Marius Preda, proprietor of Journey Café, thanked members of City Council for the opportunity to present and approving his request for an emergency deputation. Mr. Preda advised that he has lived in Barrie for the last 10 years and opened his business in November 2012. He noted that he wanted to bring a unique business concept to Barrie and that his business evolved from people's demands. Mr. Preda stated that the business originally opened as a café, then later expanded its offerings to crepes and most recently has implemented a hookah lounge. He noted that he understood there would be resident concerns and therefore separates the business by operating the café during the day and the hookah lounge in the evening. Mr. Preda commented that tourists and residents alike are happy to visit a hookah lounge located in Barrie. He noted that public opinion is different in different countries as smoking a hookah is not considered hazardous in other countries. Mr. Preda concluded by commenting that 10 out of 12 people questioned by a local newspaper were in favour of the hookah lounge and requested Council to investigate public opinion prior to making a decision on the proposed by-law.
Members of City Council asked a number of questions concerning the information provided and received responses from the presenter.