After community pressure and tests, commission allows limited weekend late hours for HUE with a 3‑month review
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Summary
Following operator reports, consultant sound tests, SFPD testimony and neighbor testimony, the commission voted 4–2 to lift the midnight entertainment cutoff on a limited basis (Fridays until 1 a.m., Saturdays until 2 a.m.) for three months, keeping other conditions in place and requiring a return hearing.
The Entertainment Commission reviewed extensive materials from HUE nightclub (447 Broadway), hearing from the operator (Bennett), acoustic consultants, the SFPD and neighborhood representatives before voting to modify conditions imposed after prior incidents.
Staff and the club’s consultants presented multi‑night sound measurements and described limiter settings and test protocols. Inspector Sean Burke and consultants said tests were taken to code‑recommended positions; consultants reported peak and average LC levels and recommended operating configurations (including rolling off front‑room bass) to avoid outside intrusion. Operator Bennett said management has implemented soundproofing measures and operational changes; security lead John Windsor described a large staffing complement, line and bottle‑service controls, and ongoing meetings with management.
SFPD Central Station officer Steve Mathias told the commission he had seen a decline in violence and fewer injuries since the commission imposed earlier conditions; however, neighbors and the Tenderloin CBD urged continued scrutiny, citing historic complaints and intermittent bass transmission through alley doors. Multiple public commenters recounted long histories of noise and fights while acknowledging recent improvements.
Commissioners debated alternatives. A motion by Vice President Thomas to fully restore 2 a.m. entertainment failed on a tie. The commission then approved a narrower plan by a 4–2 vote: allow Fridays until 1 a.m. and Saturdays until 2 a.m., keep Sunday–Thursday entertainment limited to midnight, maintain all other imposed conditions (security staffing, bottle‑service requirements, soundproofing) and require a mandatory return and review in three months. Commissioners stressed that the relief is conditional and that the commission — working with SFPD and the neighborhood — will use continued monitoring and enforcement if problems recur.
