Politics & Government
Marine Business District, Whale’s Tale Public Hearings Continue
Northport Board of Trustees proposes possible solutions to clash between restaurant and residents.
The public hearings at Northport regarding the restrictions placed on the Marine Business District and The Whale’s Tale continued Tuesday night. The Board of Trustees drew up in order to coincide with resident functionality.
Outdoor and live music are limited to no more than four special events per year. These events will run between 12-8 p.m. with a special use permit obtained from the Board of Zoning Appeals. In addition to the restrictions on music, outdoor seating should not exceed no more than 100 persons as proposed by the Board of Trustees.
The Board’s decision to allow 100 persons outdoors didn’t settle with Linda Thury, a resident of Northport Village. “Our biggest worry is to protect ourselves as neighbors,” said Thury, “We were here before them. That must be taken into consideration. If there are 100 people outside, there’s going to be noise.”
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Residents such as Pam Shields went as far as to quote an article in Newsday regarding a link between loud noises and heart attacks to make their stance on the matter clear: “Loud noises can lead to heart attacks,” stated Shields.
Outdoor seating will be prohibited after 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday; 11 p.m. Friday, Saturday, and holiday eves. The board also expanded the square footage of the restaurant from 1,000-1,500 square feet, to prevent further expansion.
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The Marine Business District is entitled to a boatyard where new and used boats can be sold, rented, repaired, and kept maintained. John Desiderio of Milland Dr brought up his concerns with maintenance of boats regarding the smell of paint and dust particles would be invading his backyard.
A major concern was how these proposals will be enforced, if violated, during the hearing on Dec. 20.
“Police would be able to enforce,” Mayor George Doll reassured. The police will issue a summons and a fine to the Marine Business District and The Whale’s Tale if they are found to be in violation, Doll said.
One resident, who wishes to remain anonymous, spoke out at the said he wants to find a happy medium between The Whale’s Tale and the community, but wants some “teeth” to enforce these laws.
The Whale’s Tale will continue to be discussed at the next board meeting will be on Jan. 17 at 6 p.m.
