Blue Light owner pauses outdoor music after repeated permit violations; commission urges compliance

Staff told the commission that The Blue Light (Union Street) has had 18 sound complaints in the last year, nine inspector visits and seven instances of noncompliance with its jam-permit conditions; staff issued two notices of violation and a citation on Nov. 16 for an amplified five-piece band performing in the parklet when the permit allows only amplified prerecorded music and outdoor acoustic live performances.

Deputy Director Azzavito said staff have worked with the owner, provided opportunities to correct programming, and are at a point where they must ensure the business follows permit conditions. The staff recommendation was not to recondition the permit at this time but to use the agenda item to stress that permit holders must abide by conditions; Director Weiland would have discretion to administratively amend conditions if the business demonstrates ongoing compliance.

Owner Johnny Matheny told commissioners he immediately stopped outdoor music after receiving the citation, acknowledged managerial challenges since reopening and said the venue had been using a third-party contractor to oversee outdoor music. Matheny said he will pause outdoor music until he hires a manager who can be present and enforce permit rules.

Commissioners urged Matheny to secure competent on-site management, reminded him the commission’s role is to support nightlife while enforcing limits, and encouraged working with staff to address permit changes if needed. Staff checked for public comment and found none; the commission closed the item without taking additional formal enforcement action at the meeting.