Downtown business owners are teaming up to create a single voice for the city's nightlife district.

The business owners said they hope the business association for the city's nightlife district will create a more consistent line of communication with city leaders as authorities crack down on underage drinking in the area.

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A property owner impacted by the city's recent increased code enforcement said he wants to work with the city on complying with state and local laws, and he believes the new business association can help make that happen and benefit both the city and property owners.

In a district built on nightlife and foot traffic, 17th Street Business Association President Aziz Showery said the city, property owners, and operators all depend on each other to keep doors open.

“Without those properties being rented out, without rental income coming in, we cannot pay our taxes, we cannot pay our insurance, we cannot survive financially,” Showery said.

Recent code enforcement crackdowns on several downtown bars has led to the city cutting power to the businesses and lawsuits stemming from underage drinking and other violations.

Property owners recently got together to discuss asking the city for routine building compliance checks, and requested designated areas for more police presence.

The ideas were presented to the mayor, city manager, and McAllen District Five Commissioner Seby Haddad.

Showery said he's hoping to hear input from the city to begin working together on his solutions.

The city said it's ready to meet with owners and operators to help keep their businesses in compliance.

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