The Utica Common Council voted against zoning changes that would have allowed Stewart's Shops to open on Culver Avenue in East Utica.

The Utica Common Council voted against zoning changes that would have allowed Stewart’s Shops to open on Culver Avenue in East Utica.

Only Councilmen David Testa and Jason Flemma supported the change.

Wednesday night was city residents’ last chance to offer their opinions before the vote.

Hundreds filled Common Council chambers, hitting maximum capacity and forcing many to watch the meeting from the caucus room.

People in support of a new store carried signs that read “help turn this into this,” with pictures of how the site currently looks and then a photo of a Stewart’s store.

But the overwhelming majority held signs that simply read “no.” Many of the protesters said this is their 11th time before the council.

In order for Stewart’s to build on Culver Avenue, the council would have had to approved a zoning change from residential to commercial. Those in opposition say the increased traffic and light pollution will transform their neighborhood, while those in favor say it will help grow the city’s tax base and highlight the other businesses on that street.

Hundreds of signatures were submitted in petitions in support and against the new business, and the council allowed more than 40 people one minute to voice their opinions.

Chuck Marshall, representative of Stewart’s Shops, said Stewart’s has adapted its plans several times in terms of safety and has sponsored local events to win the oppositions support. Before he left the podium, he promised every child in the audience a free ice cream certificate -- to which many in the crowd cried out “bribery.”

East Utica resident Carl Antonucci said he thinks Culver Avenue is the perfect location for a Stewart’s.

“As Uticans, I wish that we could support the growth, success and expansion of Culver Avenue,” he said. “I understand the complaints … but I think that Stewart’s will help the other businesses in that area.”

Anjela Mescal, who lives in “the affected area,” said a Stewart’s store would ruin the area’s heritage and hurt homeowners -- the “backbone of the community.”

“What’s going on here?” Mescal said. “Obviously this is completely ludicrous. This is a three-ring circus.”

East Utica resident Ron Gaetano said regardless of with which side your passion lies, the community is “in this together.”

“Put us back together,” Gaetano said to the council. “Whether you’re pro or against, we’re all Uticans.”