Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Noise topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Council approves sound-variance for private acoustic gatherings at 180 Narragansett after neighbors weigh in
Summary
After neighbors and the applicant described small private acoustic gatherings, the council approved a sound-variance request for 180 Narragansett Avenue for several summer dates; supporters cited reasonable hours and notification while opponents urged denial citing past concerns.
The Newport City Council voted to approve a sound-variance request for private acoustic gatherings at 180 Narragansett Avenue, allowing limited private events on specified dates this summer.
The applicant, who identified himself as John and said he is director of residences for the Orchard and lives at 180 Narragansett, told the council the events would be private, limited to fewer than 20 people and consist of acoustic music. "We're going to keep the noise down. It's nearly an acoustic set," he said, adding that zoning staff recommended filing for the permit to comply with rules. Several nearby residents spoke: one neighbor urged rejection, while Alex Fowler, who lives at 100 Annandale, said he had been notified in advance and supported the request because the hours were reasonable.
Councilors discussed process questions — whether a special-event permit or variance was the correct path — and the clerk explained private parties can apply for variances when not open to the public. After questions about prior interactions with council members and a show-of-hands vote, the motion to approve the sound variance passed. The council placed conditions by discussion and encouraged compliance with the 65-decibel standard and the applicant’s stated plan to remain well below it.
