The Footlight, a Ridgewood bar selected as best music venue by our readers, is in a legal struggle with their landlord, and it is affecting their ability to do business. Amongst other local businesses in conflict with their landlords, The Footlight has to increase their monthly payments, due to a recent settlement, until a future hearing is scheduled. This, combined with out-of-pocket repairs for recent storm damage and temporary permit fees while awaiting outstanding violations to be fixed, are pushing The Footlight into an uphill financial battle.

For small businesses like The Footlight, these added financial problems can be the difference between staying in operation or not, especially when an unexpected change in month-to-month operating costs has to be dealt with.

“The Footlight was my brainchild and a dream I had since adolescence,” said Laura Regan, The Footlight’s owner. “It would not have come to be without the support of the original small group of investors and friends that all chipped in to get us up and running. None of us have deep pockets or unlimited resources.” The owner boasts of a small turnaround, having kept most of the original staff since opening.