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Iron Tails owner and neighbors spar over noise and occupancy as town urges Planning Board resolution
Summary
Owner Greg Martinez defended his live-event business and cited sound studies showing compliance; neighbors and Select Board members urged independent noise checks and enforcement of the town's noise and occupancy rules while Martinez works through Planning Board conditional-use and parking approvals.
Greg Martinez, owner of Iron Tails, told the Select Board he has operated the venue for 16 years and presented a sound-study report showing readings of about 45 dB at the residential perimeter and 60 dB at the stage. Martinez said he contracts security and law enforcement for large events and asked the board to consider his gated areas when evaluating occupancy under National Fire Protection standards.
Neighbors and Select Board members said complaints have been increasing and pressed Martinez to finish outstanding Planning Board approvals for conditional-use and parking. Resident Chris LeClair urged the Select Board to conduct or require independent noise monitoring rather than relying on owner-submitted tests; LeClair said measurements during an earlier rainstorm likely understate noise and asked the board to visit Middle Road on a weekend to hear the effect on nearby homes.
Board members said the ordinances on the books must be enforced or changed through the proper process. Select Board member Tom McGurty said there is a need to resolve the matter with the Planning Board or bring an ordinance change before Town Meeting; David Winchell Jr. said code enforcement may need to inspect events if complaints continue. Martinez said he submitted a final application to the planning office and expects to work through public hearings and negotiations.
