Topless Coffee Shop Owner Allowed to Rebuild

Donald Crabtree, owner of the controversial Grand View Topless Coffee Shop in Vassalboro, which was destroyed by arson last month, has been granted approval from town leaders to rebuild his shop.

Crabtree submitted a permit request asking the town to let him expand the dimensions of the shop, as well as extend the hours. Town leaders voted 4-1 to approve the permit, with certain conditions.

As part of the deal, Crabtree has to complete construction on the exterior of the building before occupying and reopening the business. He also has to remove the burned debris within one year of the new business' grand opening. Crabtree will be allowed to keep the shop open from 6 a.m. until 1 a.m. seven days a week, but as part of the deal, he will have to allow space for emergency vehicles to enter the parking lot.

At the meeting, Crabtree decided against pursuing another permit that would allow his employees to dance while working.

(Provided by News 13)