Irondequoit, N.Y. - John Giehl loved hanging out at the Cooper Deli when he was growing up. In 1979 he bought the place.
Bucky Montrois was his coffee guy. The two have been friends for years and have always loved doing business in Irondequoit where they grew up.
John sold the Deli, but still owns the property.
He and Bucky just opened up the Titus Tavern in the front of the building.
John said: "It's one of the best corners in all of Irondequoit."
Bucky added, ""As far as the business, my love for the community is still there... it's the people."
They didn't get tax breaks or other incentives to open their business.
Bucky said: "Our incentives are the hugs and handshakes we get from people happy we're here."
These longtime businessmen have been committed to this area near Cooper Road and Titus Avenue since they were children. It's a place they love.
They have been around long before mention of I-Square development.
But, both support the project and hope it will boost business in the area.
Local developer Mike Nolan wants to build shops, offices and restaurants in the area and asked the town for tax breaks to help finance his project.
After many meetings and tense negotiations, plus some heated public debate, the Irondequoit Town Board said it came to an agreement with Nolan.
The town board agreed to a 25 year pilot program. That keeps assessment on the property flat for as long as tax breaks are needed to complete the project.
Irondequoit Town Supervisor Mary Joyce D'Aurizio said not everyone agreed with this decision and she understood why people were upset.
But, she said the project will benefit the town and Comida will monitor the tax breaks to make sure they are only given for as long as needed.
D'Aurizio said the developer will be required to meet benchmarks after 15 years and 20 years.
Another longtime business in that area also supports the I-Square development.
Hair Extraordinaire has been in business on Titus Avenue for 25 years and has no plans to move.
Stylist Holly Becker said they have loyal customers and a loyal following and the salon is the best place to go to find out what's going on in town.
Once the town board adopts the pilot plan Tuesday night, it will then be reviewed by Comida.
Supervisor Mary Joyce D'Aurizio says shovels could be in the ground for the project as early as May of this year.
