Confusion grows over outdoor music permits in Troy
TROY, N.Y. (NEWS10) -- Troy businesses and residents on both sides of the issue came together to learn more about the confusion surrounding the city’s sound ordinance and outdoor music permit process. “The fact that you’re here shows that the city is important to you,” said former Mud Daddy Flaps owner Dan Frament.
Several business owners and Troy residents came out to a meeting in downtown to express their grievances over how the city is handling outdoor music permits. Some businesses say it used to be 10 p.m. or 11 p.m. for music. They are concerned the city is now rolling back the clock on outdoor music permits and it is causing some confusion.
However, other businesses are in favor of the regulations. “It's not about the live music, it's about the levels and it's about treating your neighbor's properly,” said Bacchus Wood Fired Dining owner Jim Scully.
In an email communication between City Council Member, Aaron Vera and Deputy Mayor, Seamus Donnelly, obtained by NEWS10, claims numerous complaints have been made about music in the Monument Square corridor. “The reasonable solution is cutting outdoor music off at 9 p.m. To respect the neighborhood and residents that live in that corridor,” responded the deputy mayor.
The city clerk sent an email out this year to those businesses with permits. It confirms, “Moving forward, ALL PERMITS that have music on them is to be done by 9 p.m.”
Jeremy Gold, a performer who just moved here from the Bronx two months ago who supports the live music said, “You moved to a downtown district of Troy New York where you should expect that.”
Some residents enjoy the nightlife but want a happy medium. “Not all of the clubs are considerate neighbors. But that's something that can be dealt with on an individual as needed basis,” said Pamela Bentien, Troy homeowner for 32 years.
A statement from a spokesperson at the mayor's office reads, “For clarity, no new policies were added to the city code. These are existing guidelines that are simply being enforced. Outdoor music is only allowed until 11 p.m. on residential property- that has never been applied to businesses within the city code.” The response goes on to explain that amplified music is not allowed outdoors without a special permit from the City of Troy.
The mayor's office says they realize the benefit to the downtown area by providing a lively downtown experience but it wants to remind people, "The downtown area is also a neighborhood where many families reside. They need to be able to relax in the comfort of their own homes without hearing overlapping music from all over downtown."
“Banging on a drum, amplifying your guitar, it's just not the right vibe,” said Scully.
The mayor’s office intends to overhaul the permit process and guidelines by next year’s season.