Future of Highland Park's Verdugo Pet Shop Remains Uncertain

Nearly three months after the death of long time owner Hervey Chapman, it appears that the former location of the the Verdugo Pet Shop on York Boulevard won't be occupied any time soon.

The reason for the vacancy, according to Hervey's brother Wayne Chapman, is what promises to the long, complicated process of settling the late Chapman's estate.

Wells Fargo Bank is the trustee of Hervey's estate, which includes the Verdugo Pet Shop, Wayne Chapman said.

He told Highland Park-Mount Washington Patch that Wells Fargo is now charged with determining the value of all Hervey's remaining assets, as well as balancing his outstanding financial obligations, before a sale of the Verdugo Pet Shop can occur.

"After doing all of the things that a trustee must do, the bank will make the final distribution perhaps within a year," he said. "Two folks have informed me of their interest in purchasing the property.  I do not know what, if anything, will come of these intents. I have given to the bank all expressions of interest that came to me regarding the disposition of the pet shop. It will remain empty and unused until these issues are resolved."

The Verdugo Pet Shop, which operated at 5022 York Blvd. for more than 30 years, sits on prime real estate.

It's adjacent to popular nightlife spots The York and and is passed every month by thousands of art lovers who flock to York's strip of galleries during NELA Art's .

It's also located within the business corridor primed for redevelopment through councilmember Jose Huizar's vision plan.

As such, debate over what sort of establishment should replace the Verdugo Pet Shop is likely to swell while its former building remains empty in the coming months.

Some Patch commenters have written that they would prefer to see an established chain store, like a Starbucks, move into the property. However, York Boulevard is already home to two popular coffee shops, El Chapin and .

Others have said they would prefer to see the property occupied by a local business owner, who would actively participate in the ongoing revitalization of York between Avenues 50 and 56, which has been predominantly spurred by independent, locally owned shops.

Cathi Milligan, who owns the , said in February that if the Verdugo Pet Shop is sold, she hopes it goes to a business that will fit the community's development plans for the area.

"I don't think we're ready for an Urban Outfitters yet, but I wouldn't be opposed to something like that sometime in the future. I do hope whoever takes it over keeps in mind the local business culture," she said. "I just hope it goes to the right person."