Walker's Gelato Shop Application Receives Final Approval

Boyd Walker’s application to turn a historic Commerce Street ice house into a gelato and coffee shop received approval from Alexandria City Council on Saturday, though not without members of council criticizing Walker for comments he made on his blog in regards to members of the city’s Economic Development Partnership. 

, which would transform the old Mutual Ice Company building at 200 Commerce St. into a gelato stand with 30 outdoor seats, has been in the works for some time.

An initial plan was approved in 2010, but Walker’s efforts stalled and the application had to make a second run through .

“In terms of the prior 18 months, what’s been the problem?” Vice Mayor Kerry Donley asked Walker. “Is there an issue in terms of getting the building up and going? … Have you been sidetracked with other activities?”

“Perhaps, yes,” Walker replied with a laugh.

The Old Town resident has been one of several leading voices against the city’s waterfront plan over the last year. He cofounded Citizens for an Alternative Alexandria Waterfront Plan and is now running for council as a Democrat.

Donley said he was “happy” to support the application, but reminded Walker that the city offers programs to help small businesses get off the ground.

“We have a Small Business Development Center. Our Economic Development Partnership actually works with a lot of existing small businesses,” Donley said. “You might want to give them a call. I know you’ve made some disparaging comments about some of those individuals recently on your blog. But you might want to avail yourself of some of those programs in order to get your business up and running so that 18 months from now we’re not back renewing your special use permit.”

In January, Walker mentioned members of the Alexandria Economic Development Partnership in a blog post. He commented on their clothing and public speaking ability.

Walker has since taken the blog down.

“I think you need to evaluate the most appropriate way to apologize to some of the people who you commented on on your blog. I really do,” Councilman Rob Krupicka said. “I think you pushed the envelope of civic dialogue especially when referencing certain people who represent the city on a pretty regular basis. I think you need to be thoughtful about how you do that. I know you took [the blog] down because you realized it was not appropriate. I think you should find an opportunity to let those folks know you realized it was a mistake.”

Walker said he “appreciated the suggestion.”

Krupicka also encouraged Walker to utilize the Small Business Development Center to avoid delays in opening the business because it would be “a really nice addition to the neighborhood.”

Walker has 18 months to open the gelato shop. If he fails to do so, the application has to make another run through the planning process.  

In November 2006, Walker had the ice house’s canopy and a framed enclosure on the loading dock removed without approval from the Old and Historic Alexandria Board of Architectural Review, which resulted in a $25,000 fine.

Walker has since worked with the city and completed necessary requirements, according to city documents. Business signage and other exterior alternations will need final BAR approval.