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Council approves Ragged Island Brewing outdoor music variance with 75 dB cap; police may revisit if complaints arise
Summary
After a public hearing, the council approved Ragged Island Brewing's request for multiple summer outdoor events and a noise variance, adding a 75-decibel cap measured at complaint locations and a police stipulation that the town can revisit approvals if management fails to address recurring problems.
Fort Smith Town Council granted Ragged Island Brewing Company a multi-date noise variance and permission for several outdoor music events this summer, with conditions including a 75-decibel maximum as measured where complaints originate.
Owner Matthew Gray told the council the brewery has hosted successful outdoor events the last two summers and seeks formal approval for a music festival and additional dates from June through August. The business said music would end at 8:30 p.m., events would be managed by licensed event staff and security details and that the site had added parking capacity.
The police chief and staff recommended including a decibel limit so the department can enforce complaints where needed. Council members debated the appropriate cap and measurement location. Chief of Police reported that the department used a 75 dB standard in two prior cases without follow-up issues and that officers would take readings at the complaining property's edge, noting traffic and background noise are recorded in enforcement reports.
The council approved the variance with the 75 dB cap and added a planning condition giving the police and town the right to bring the permit back to council if management fails to address repeated complaints. The vote passed on a council voice vote (recorded 5-2 on final tally), with two members opposed.
Gray told the council he had engaged event staffing and said he expected ticketed concerts to be easier to manage; the brewery also secured additional on-site parking and said it would continue working with the police on event logistics.
The council's action clarifies the town's approach to amplified music at private event venues and sets a precedent for future multi-date outdoor entertainment requests.
