WICHITA, KS. Sept. 3, 2008 - In just the few months that it was open, the Big Chubs Club at 31st and Seneca was no stranger to crime.

"A lot of gang types of issues, manifestation of crime, violence, drugs, and then it culminated with the homicide," WPD Deputy Chief Tom Stolz said.

That homicide in late July is what convinced owners close the bar.

Police say the bar was the reason crime in the neighborhood jumped by nearly seven percent.

"We were very upset that not only was it going to reopen, but right here in our neighborhood," District Advisory Board member Joanne Hartig said.

Based on the knowledge of the club, some Wichitans are vowing to fight the bars planned reopening near Harry and St. Francis.

"I think its a normal concern of citizens that when the same ownership wants to reopen another establishment in another location there is going to be concern," Stolz said.

However, Deputy Chief Tom Stolz was the same man that had to deliver some tough news to homeowners at Wednesday's District Advisory Board meeting. 

"At the end of the day, if everything complies with zoning and the law he will be allowed to open a club again," Stolz said. "There is nothing under current ordinance that would stop that."

While Big Chubs may get its license to reopen, police are working to change the law to be able to better handle bars.

Police are proposing an ordinance that would require bars to submit a formal business plan.  Bars would have to consult with police on proper lighting and traffic control issues.  Also, bars would have to notify the neighborhood when they planned to open. If the bar become violent, the Chief of Police could pull the bar's license.

The new ordinance will be little help to South Wichita homeowners in their current fight; however, all agree the ordinance is needed for future battles.