After two public hearings at which numerous residents spoke out against a proposal to establish a strip club on Route 236, town leaders have issued a moratorium on nude entertainment. Residents will vote on the moratorium during a special town meeting on Saturday, May 14, at 6:30 p.m. at Marshwood Middle School. 

If enacted, the moratorium would give the Board of Selectmen more time to consider a pair of ordinances that would permanently prevent the 403 Gentlemen’s Club from opening. The Adult Entertainment Ordinance and the Special Amusement Ordinance each would prohibit nude entertainment in the town. 

Meanwhile, a group of parents have launched a website called Keep Eliot Safe! (www.keepeliotsafe.org) in opposition to the proposed club, which would be located in a former daycare facility at 403 Route 236, within minutes of schools.

The town held public hearings on April 28 and May 5, each of which drew large crowds of concerned residents. But a lawyer for applicant Donald Denunzio has warned that the town will face a lengthy court battle if it attempts to ban the club.