Larkin bar's cabaret license denied amid neighborhood noise complaints

The Albany Board of Zoning Appeals convened on March 12, 2025, to address the appeal of a denied cabaret license for a local bar, a topic that has stirred significant community interest and concern. The meeting featured discussions from both the bar's representatives and local residents, highlighting the ongoing tension between business operations and neighborhood peace.

The bar's attorney opened the session by emphasizing the establishment's commitment to working with the community. He noted that all city departments had approved the cabaret license application, except for the Albany Police Department, which raised concerns about noise levels. The attorney argued that the bar has operated without safety issues and expressed a desire for collaboration with neighbors to resolve any misunderstandings.

Public comments followed, revealing a divided community. Jeremy Bond, a resident living above the bar, voiced frustration over increased noise levels, particularly on weekends, which he claimed disrupted his ability to sleep and impacted his property value. He expressed confusion over the bar's operations without a valid license and urged the board to uphold the clerk's decision to deny the application.

Bill Pettit, president of the Washington Park Neighborhood Association, echoed Bond's sentiments, stating that the bar had not engaged with the neighborhood to find solutions to the noise problem. He called for the board to take a stand against the ongoing disturbances.

In contrast, Julia Bautista, another resident, defended the bar, arguing that it revitalizes the neighborhood and provides a safe environment. She criticized the perception that the bar's entertainment options were problematic and expressed her support for the cabaret license application.

The meeting concluded with a call for further discussion, as the board members considered the implications of their decision. It was clarified that any ruling made would not affect the bar's ability to apply for a license in 2025, indicating that the matter would continue to evolve.

Overall, the meeting underscored the complexities of balancing business interests with community concerns, setting the stage for ongoing dialogue in Albany's vibrant neighborhoods.