TAMPA, Fla.— The Stovall House was built along Bayshore Boulevard in 1909. It's known for its rich history and unique architecture.
- Stovall house owner wants to turn it into social club
- It would feature dining a guests suites
- Petitions started for & against the transformation
The home's new owner, Blake Casper, wants to transform the house into a social club.
"It was one of the first houses on Bayshore this far south of Hyde Park," Casper said.
It would feature dining and five guest suites. The landscaping on the property would be upgraded and new features would be added. Casper has applied for a rezoning and alcohol permit.
Some neighbors are excited about the possibility of having this club so close to their homes.
"I think it's going to be a privilege to live across the street from what he's going to bring to this area," Norman Cannella Jr said.
Other neighbors plan to do everything they can to stop this from happening.
"This is not what we purchased this property for. This is not right to us. This is not right to me," Zhenya Nichols said.
Structures on the Stovall House property can be seen from her backyard.
Nichols started a petition with signatures from other neighbors against the idea. She fears the club would bring noise and extra traffic to the neighborhood she loves.
Casper also has a petition with signatures from people in favor of his plan. He maintains his vision includes making sure neighbors aren't negatively impacted.
Those for and against this proposed project will make their voices heard to Tampa City Council at a meeting on Aug. 30 at 6 p.m.