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Residents and restaurant owners seek clarity as Bradenton enforces permits for Cottonmouth backyard dining and music
Summary
At citizen comment, speakers for Cottonmouth and the Village of the Arts urged clarity and expressed concern about repeated police responses to small music events; planning staff said the dispute centers on fire-safety, occupancy and whether a change of use or permitting is required.
Bradenton— Two public speakers asked the City Council for clarity and consistency over the city's enforcement of permits and occupancy for Cottonmouth, a restaurant operating in the Village of the Arts, and raised community concerns about repeated police responses to live-music events.
Cecilia Hernandez spoke on behalf of owner Dave (absent for family reasons), describing steps already taken to comply with the city's concerns: a life-safety plan requested by the fire marshal, added egress points and the engagement of a general contractor. "Once the rear structures are properly permitted and approved, they should Dave should be allowed to reopen and occupy the backyard dining area as a part of Cottonmouth's existing restaurant operations," Hernandez said.
Annie Rousini, representing the Village of the Arts, told council that small music gatherings at the restaurant frequently prompt police responses that she said can intimidate patrons and have caused customers to leave. "We have three cop cars come every single time there's music," Rousini said, and described the effect on neighborhood commerce and patrons.
Robin Singer, the planning director, told council staff would continue working with the owner and the fire marshal to resolve the main concerns: fire safety, Americans with Disabilities Act access, sanitation and occupancy (including bathroom requirements). Singer said some structures may be handled through private providers and that change-of-use or occupancy issues generally go through the Development Review Committee (DRC). Mayor and council members urged a coordinated approach focused on the fire inspector, building department and DRC as appropriate.
No council action was taken at the meeting; staff said they will continue to engage the owner, the fire marshal and the DRC to determine whether a change of use, special-use review, or reasonable-accommodation process applies.
