Chula Vista’s bayfront development got a sudden jumpstart October 8 when a new place called EyeCandy opened on Bay Boulevard. The establishment features nude dancers and soft drinks.

EyeCandy, visible from the freeway, is located on Chula Vista’s E Street exit. It was formerly Anthony’s Fish Grotto but was sold, according to the San Diego Daily Transcript, for $2.1 million in December 2011. The buyer was 215 Blvd, LLC c/o Waldon R. Welty.

Mr. Welty made himself available for an interview on the Bay Boulevard premises October 8. “I like the fact that it’s across the street from a portion of the bayfront that will remain undeveloped, a natural preserve,” said Welty. He also indicated that there is a motel just to the south on Bay Boulevard and card rooms will be opening just a little further south.

Welty said the business license for the company said “entertainment” and the application said “cabaret/theater.” An October 7 Craigslist ad solicits “Dancer Auditions, No Experience Needed (San Bernardino and Chula Vista).”

In response to a question about a potential attempt to close EyeCandy down, Welty said, “How dare they? Where is the law for grownups? How dare public officials become the voice for moral authority?”

Welty indicated he was ready with an attorney, Roger Diamond, if need be. He also said it would be a disservice to Chula Vista residents for city officials to spend the little money they have trying to close the establishment.

The bayfront has been a battleground for years, and Welty is a veteran fighter. A Union-Tribune article titled “Flesh Club owner heads medical pot effort” credits Welty for spearheading a signature-gathering effort in San Diego to repeal restrictions on medical marijuana dispensaries.

Chula Vista councilmember Steve Castaneda said he was shocked to see the sign last night when he was exiting the freeway. He said he spoke to city manager Jim Sandoval, who was also not aware of EyeCandy.

“It’s a very pivotal piece of property in Chula Vista,” Castaneda said. “It marks the beginning of the city and is one of the gateways to the bayfront….

“If the establishment was given the permit under fraudulent circumstances, then there is something we can do about it,” Castaneda continued. “But, if his interpretation of what a lawful business is is different than ours, then the courts will have to make that decision.”