Arlington County reviews live entertainment permits amid community noise complaints

The Arlington County Board held a recessed meeting on May 13, 2025, primarily focused on the review of live entertainment use permits for establishments in the Clarendon area. The meeting began with a presentation by Cedric Sutherland, an associate planner, who provided background on the Clarendon Live Entertainment Group (CLEG) and the ongoing administrative reviews of the 21 establishments that hold permits for live entertainment.

Sutherland noted that the CLEG was established in the early 2000s to manage the concentration of entertainment venues in Clarendon, which has been a dining and entertainment destination for over 50 years. The review process occurs every two years, with administrative reviews in between. During the latest review, inspections revealed no significant building code violations, but seven citations were issued for noise control ordinance violations. Minor zoning infractions were also noted, particularly regarding staff training for responsible alcohol service.

Aaron Miller from the county manager's office discussed public safety concerns, highlighting a decrease in overall calls for service related to the establishments, although there was an increase in noise complaints, primarily from two venues. Enhanced enforcement measures were implemented in late 2024, including increased police presence on weekends and improved communication of permit conditions to business owners.

Public testimony revealed significant community concerns regarding noise and compliance with permit conditions. Residents expressed frustration over repeated violations, particularly from establishments like Coco B's and Don Tito, which have been cited for loud noise and failure to adhere to operational hours. Speakers called for stricter enforcement and shorter review periods for problematic establishments, emphasizing the need for accountability.

The county manager's recommendations included renewing permits for most establishments, with the exception of Chicken and Whiskey, which has closed. The board discussed the possibility of implementing a six-month review for establishments with repeated violations, as well as the need for clearer guidelines on enforcement thresholds.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the ongoing challenges of balancing vibrant nightlife with community concerns over noise and compliance. The board is considering adjustments to the review process and enforcement strategies to address these issues more effectively in the future.