by Bailey White
Staff Writer
While it looked like Jacksonville might be losing one of its more popular eateries, the Heartworks Gallery & Cafe in Five Points won’t close without a fight.
Owner Elaine Wheeler is facing an almost doubled rent rate, and new state codes require her to install an industrial strength hood — which comes with a $10,000 price tag — above her stove. Those factors, combined with a weakened economy, created a dim outlook for the restaurant.
“I put up a sign that said we’d be closing, telling people to enjoy it while they could,” said Wheeler, who first opened the gallery portion of the cafe 16 years ago. “Since then, the phone has been ringing off the hook. No one wants us to close.”
And now there’s hope. A number of loyal customers have vowed to support her business with organized fund raising efforts for the new equipment.
And at least one City Council member is lending a helping hand.
“It’s a small business in Five Points that’s been there a long time,” said Kay Ehas, Council aide to Dist. 14 Council member Jim Overton. “We don’t want to see it leave. We don’t want to see state regulations put out small businesses, and fortunately, it looks like they’re willing to work with her quite a bit.”
According to Ehas, who spoke to Fire Marshall Ted Holmes, Wheeler must submit a letter of intent with a timeline of when she plans to install the hood.
“But then she has the time she needs to come up with the money for it,” said Ehas.
Wheeler could also ask for an interpretation of the code, which would leave it up to state fire marshals whether or not she absolutely must have the new hood, because Wheeler does only a limited amount of stovetop cooking.
And, as long as Wheeler is able to again secure a lease with her landlords, she’ll be able to stay in business.
“I want to be sure I can get the lease or there isn’t a point in fundraising,” said Wheeler.
Since adding the restaurant to her gallery nine years ago, Wheeler has remained the only strictly-vegetarian restaurant in the city. Her carrot dogs, baked goods and daily specials have attracted a large following over the years.
“It’s never been about making money,” said Wheeler. “But small businesses are what gives any city its distinction. Across America, individual pioneers are rarely honored or respected. It’s unfortunate that what ends up making it are the generic and mediocre chains.”
But Wheeler is hopeful she will be able to continue operations in Five Points, a neighborhood she says suits Heartworks perfectly.
“This is a neighborhood that celebrates individuality; everyone here is very creative and innovate,” she said. “They don’t do things like everybody else.”
The first fundraiser is scheduled for Thursday night, featuring local musician Michelle Payne and the band Tuffy. It starts at 8 p.m. and is free, though donations are accepted.