Select Board approves Off the Rails entertainment permit amid noise complaints, 4–1

The Ludlow Select Board approved an entertainment permit for Off the Rails on Aug. 3 after residents presented a petition alleging loud, late-night music in the Village. Brett Sanderson moved to approve the permit and Justin Hyjek seconded; the motion passed 4–1 with George Tucker Jr. opposed.

Ray Payne, chief operating officer and operating partner with Four Square Hospitality, told the board he had completed and submitted the entertainment permit application and said the venue updated its sound equipment to draw customers into the outdoor space. “Live music is valuable entertainment and helps with a healthy economy,” Payne said, adding the venue typically schedules smaller acts and would limit outdoor performances in winter months. About 15 residents from Orion Avenue, Meadow Street, Pleasant Street and Andover Street signed a petition describing the music as a “horrendously loud nuisance” that sometimes continued until 11:00 p.m.

Residents pressed for clearer limits; Kathy Grant asked the board to limit hours and requested that performers moderate language. Board members discussed whether to adopt decibel limits and uniform permitting for other venues. Noah Schmidt urged a 10:00 p.m. cap on outdoor music and asked staff to propose a timeline for ordinance updates. Municipal Manager Penny Wu told the board the property taxes and permit fees for Off the Rails were current and recommended approval with restrictions. After discussion, the board approved the permit 4–1.

The Select Board did not attach a detailed decibel threshold in the motion; members directed staff to return with potential restrictions and an enforcement timeline. The board’s decision applies only to this permit; any townwide changes to the entertainment ordinance will require future ordinance amendments.