Lakeland Planning Board approves Rec Room bar expansion with strict noise and security conditions

During the City of Lakeland City Commission meeting on March 17, 2025, significant discussions centered around the proposed expansion of a bar known as The Rec Room, located in downtown Lakeland. The meeting highlighted the city's ongoing efforts to balance economic development with community concerns, particularly regarding noise and public safety.

The commission reviewed criteria to determine whether the expansion would negatively impact the downtown area. Staff analysis indicated that The Rec Room is the only bar in its block, suggesting that the expansion would not lead to an undesirable concentration of bars. Additionally, the nearest church is approximately 800 feet away, minimizing potential conflicts with sensitive land uses such as places of worship or facilities for children and the elderly.

A key point of discussion involved the bar's history of police-related calls. The analysis revealed that The Rec Room had about 117 police-related calls, with 62 categorized as community service calls initiated by police rather than public complaints. This proactive policing approach was noted as a positive factor, indicating that the police were actively monitoring the establishment. Comparatively, other bars in the area had similar or higher call volumes, suggesting that The Rec Room's activity levels were consistent with local norms.

The Lakeland Downtown Development Authority (LDDA) unanimously supported the expansion, which was a crucial endorsement for the proposal. However, the planning and zoning board's approval was not without debate. Concerns were raised about the need for law enforcement presence during peak hours, particularly Thursday through Saturday nights, which led to a condition requiring off-duty officers to assist with crowd control during these times.

To address community concerns about noise, the business owner agreed to several conditions. Outdoor speakers were prohibited, and noise mitigation measures, including a vegetative buffer along Cedar Street, were mandated to help absorb sound. The outdoor seating area will be limited to seating only, with no games or bar activities allowed outside, further aiming to reduce noise levels.

The commission also established that if ownership of The Rec Room changes, the conditional use permit would need to be reviewed again by the city commission. This stipulation ensures that any new management would be held to the same standards and conditions set forth in the current approval.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the city's commitment to fostering a vibrant downtown while addressing the concerns of residents regarding noise and safety. The approved expansion of The Rec Room, with its accompanying conditions, reflects a careful approach to urban development that seeks to balance economic growth with community well-being. The commission's decision will likely influence future developments in the area, as it sets a precedent for how similar proposals may be evaluated moving forward.