Kouvola City has stepped into a rental agreement conflict involving popular restaurant Happy Bar Jolene. The dispute centers on the restaurant's current location in the Pukimo district low-rise section, which faces demolition plans.
City lawyer has reviewed the situation, according to deputy city manager Tuukka Forsell. The city development company Kinno has presented alternative location options to the restaurant owner, though no new premises have been found yet.
Demolition work cannot proceed because property owners and Jolene disagree about the restaurant's rental terms. The building is owned by Kouvolan Asunnot oy and Kymen Tuki oy, the support and property services of Kymenlaakso welfare district.
Restaurant owner Jyri Kettunen confirms negotiations about the rental agreement are now underway. He says talks began late last week and expressed hope for reaching a final resolution this time.
Kettunen declined to comment on his desired outcome during ongoing negotiations. He previously stated Jolene wants to negotiate both the rental agreement and compensation related to the potential demolition.
Jari Niemi, CEO of Kouvolan Asunnot, calls the situation unfortunate. He says the company values entrepreneurship and sees local businesses as important for a vibrant city center. Niemi acknowledges negotiations haven't progressed optimally and expresses personal regret about the situation.
The company purchased the property specifically for demolition and replacement with apartment buildings. New residential buildings are planned for completion in 2027.
From the property owner's perspective, the situation presents challenges. Niemi notes they haven't signed rental agreements with businesses operating in the premises nor arranged water or electricity contracts for the property.
In late October, Kymenlaakso District Court prohibited the property owners from demolishing the building and set a €300,000 fine for violation. Jolene sought this protective measure because it wants to continue operations.
The ongoing dispute highlights the tension between urban development plans and existing small businesses in Finnish cities. Property acquisition for redevelopment often creates difficult situations for established local enterprises trying to maintain their operations.