The Worcester License Commission on Thursday approved limited outdoor music at the Marine Corps League (MCL) on Lake Avenue, allowing performances only twice a month on Sundays and requiring amplified music to be played under the club's covered deck.

The action came after roughly two hours of public comment in which nearby residents said outdoor bands have disrupted their ability to enjoy their homes, while supporters and veterans urged the commission to preserve the MCL's summer fundraising and community programs. Commissioner Sharron Fisher moved to allow two Sundays per month of outdoor entertainment, with music kept under the deck; the motion passed with Commissioner Maritza Cruz voting yes, Fisher yes and Chair Anthony Vigliotti voting no.

The commission's decision sets specific dates the club provided for this season, beginning with Sunday, June 29, and including July 6 and July 20; August 3 and 10; September 7 and 21; and October 5 and 12. The approval also includes explicit conditions: outdoor music must be acoustic/low-volume and performed under the deck; the club must control access so that only members and bona fide guests attend; and the club must ensure compliance with any inspectional or police requirements.

Neighbors said excessive noise and parking issues prompted their complaints. Mike Maduka, who operates a nearby business and identified himself as an abutter, told the commission the concerts "have a significant adverse effect on the quality of our neighborhood" and cited the city's noise ordinance in asking for denial. Kelly Fitzpatrick, who lives on Lake Avenue, said she supported the MCL's community work but objected to outdoor music as a long-term practice: "I just want some peace. I don't want to have to feel like every time the music comes on I have to worry."

Supporters said the events have charitable benefits and are conducted responsibly. Anthony Petrone said the MCL "has proudly served this community for over 50 years" and urged the commission not to curtail seasonal entertainment. Speakers for the MCL described steps taken to limit dates and reduce volume after meeting with neighbors; the club provided decibel measurements and said it plans to play softer, acoustic-oriented bands outdoors.

Commissioners and staff emphasized enforcement and access controls. Sergeant Thomas Needham of the Worcester Police Department and licensing staff warned the club to maintain strict day-pass and membership controls so outside attendees do not circumvent private-club rules. The commission cautioned that future complaints over guest control or noise could lead to further restrictions.

The approval was framed as a compromise: residents get fewer events and the music relocated under the deck; the club retains limited outdoor fundraising opportunities. The commission said it will require the club to follow the approved schedule and conditions and to cooperate with police and inspectional services if issues recur.