In a recent city council meeting in Seabrook, local business owners and community members passionately advocated for the Barge, a floating bar and community hub, to receive a temporary variance to reopen following significant disruptions caused by Hurricane Burrell. The Barge, which has become a beloved gathering place for locals, was highlighted as not only a venue for socializing but also a spiritual meeting point for the community.

Several speakers, including Amy Perella and Patrick Robinson, emphasized the importance of supporting local businesses during challenging times. Perella described the Barge as a landmark that fosters community spirit and urged the council to consider the broader implications of denying the variance, suggesting it would contribute to a negative perception of the city as unwelcoming to businesses. Robinson, representing the Barge, noted that 30 employees were currently out of work due to the closure and requested the council to facilitate a temporary agreement to help the business recover.

Ray Villanueva, owner of a local restaurant, echoed these sentiments, calling for collaboration between the council and business owners to find solutions rather than simply denying requests. He stressed the need for the community to come together, especially in light of recent hardships from the hurricane.

Linda Spieth, a local fish market owner, shared her own experiences of recovery after Hurricane Ike, drawing parallels to the current situation and advocating for the same support that was extended to her business in the past. She highlighted the inconsistency in how temporary structures were treated for residents versus businesses, urging the council to reconsider their stance.

The meeting underscored a collective desire among community members to foster a supportive environment for local businesses, with many calling for a shift in the council's approach to be more accommodating and proactive in helping the community thrive post-disaster. The discussions reflect a broader concern for the economic vitality of Seabrook and the importance of maintaining its unique character through support for local establishments.