Geneseo, NY - Richard Peraino doesn't want to hang up his clippers just yet, but says he just cannot afford to stay in business.
Peraino said the building that houses his "Family Barber Shop" on Main Street in Geneseo is being renovated, and if he were to stay, his rent would triple in cost.
His landlord told 13WHAM News, he doesn't want to see Peraino close up shop. But, the landlord said the rent hasn't been increased in more than ten years. He also said even with the increase, the rent is about 300-dollars less than other tenants are paying.
Peraino wonders why federal grant money being used to renovate part of the building cannot be used to help save his business.
We asked the landlord and he said the grant only covers the tin roof and windows for the project. He said he can not afford to rent the space unless he raises the monthly rate to cover his costs.
The landlord said he offered Peraino a larger space for the extra rent, but Peraino said he doesn't need more room, he just wants to keep his business.
Customers and family members are nostalgic when talking about this family business. They have been coming in for haircuts and good conversation for decades.
Amy Thomas said she remembers as a child getting her haircut in her uncle's shop.
Newt Peraino opened the shop in 1938, along with his friend, Samuel Gerace.
It is now run by Peraino's son Richard. He still keeps prices down, charging only 9-dollars for a haircut.
Peraino said he doesn't want to stop cutting hair and would love for village officials to help him stay in business.
If this isn't resolved, Peraino said he will go through with plans to close his shop for good after his final haircut at noon on Saturday.
