The controversial strip club in Mount Vernon that shut down after four decades in business wants to reopen in its old home on Gramatan Avenue.

For 45 years, the controversial club known around the county as Sue’s Rendezvous was a fixture in the heart of Mount Vernon. In recent years, city leaders say the club has become synonymous with shootings and chaos and criminal activity.

Back in April, the owner of Sue’s abruptly decided to close its doors, but now it appears he wants to reopen.  The owner has submitted an application to reopen, but it appears the zoning board won't address it until its meeting on Dec. 18.

Mayor Richard Thomas is opposed to the idea as is Councilman Andre Wallace, who believes Sue’s is bad for the city.  "Sue’s don't belong in this neighborhood. Right now we are working on the quality of life and I think Mount Vernon deserves better. This is a main corridor and school kids pass this way every day. It doesn’t belong on this strip," says Wallace.

The lawyer for Sue's Rendezvous tells News 12 that he believes the city is trampling over his client's real property and constitutional rights, and that they intend to fight to protect them.