Politics & Government

Outdoor Music Ordinance for Big Chief Changed Once Again

The proposal continues to draw opposition and support with the modifications pushing back a final vote until the Wildwood City Council's next meeting.

After seeming to be on the verge of defeat, an ordinance to allow limited, amplified live outdoor music at the Big Chief Restaurant may yet be passed, although in a more restricted form than previously.
 
On Monday, the Wildwood City Council heard comments from 11 citizens, including residents who argued against the change and pleas from owners, employees and customers to allow it. 

“What I am asking for is a chance, a chance to prove that we are different than the previous owners,” said Stephanie Mulholland, the co-owner of Big Chief. 

The restaurant is located in the city’s Pond Historic District, which includes a mix of uses from homes to business to churches. Residences are located to the west, south and southeast of the restaurant.

Several of the individuals who live nearby again spoke out against the proposal, including Stacey Braswell, who said he expects the music to be “blaring.”

“It comes across the field and is very loud,” he said. “I ask the council members, would you want that in your backyard?”

The discussion isn’t new to the council and previous owners have tried and failed with similar attempts. Monday’s meeting was the second reading for Mulholland’s request, which has been altered several times as it works its way through the legislative process. 

After the lengthy discussion, Ward 7 council member Jeffrey Levitt made a motion to once again amend the ordinance in an attempt at striking a compromise. It placed four main restrictions:

  • The music is limited to four hours, not ending later than 9:30 p.m.
  • It is only allowed twice a week on Friday and Saturday.
  • The use of live music is conditioned on a six-month trial period, after which it will be reviewed and brought before the council again.
  • Bands shall be limited to three members and must be situated on the southeastern end of the patio facing west.
The day of the week limitations and turning it from a review period to a trial period helped earn the support of some council members. 

“I think we need to give this establishment the ability to try this out, work with it and let the neighbors understand what they are talking about it,” said Ward 4 council member Katie Dodwell. 

It was the second reading of the ordinance and had been set up for final passage Monday. However, Mayor Tim Woerther said that the amendments were substantial enough to require that it will be back for the council for a final vote Aug. 26.


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