SOUTHWICK – The Board of Selectmen met earlier this week with William Rivera of Louie B’s to discuss a recent noise complaint.
“The good news is Louie B’s has been relatively quiet,” said Selectmen Chairman Arthur Pinell. “The reason we asked you to come in is we have a noise complaint and the officer said the music was so loud he thought it was on the deck and it was inside.”
Pinell told Rivera, co-owner of the waterfront restaurant and bar, to be “vigilant about the noise issue.” He also told Rivera that the board is looking at changing some of the regulations – times, in particular – associated with the licensing of establishments with outdoor spaces.
“Some revisions would impact you,” said Pinell. “It’s in everybody’s best interest to keep things quiet and orderly.”
Selectwoman Tracy Cesan noted for the record that in her time on the board this was the first incident at Louie B’s that was brought to the board’s attention.
In recent years, there were numerous complaints about incidents at the establishment.
Police Lt. David Ricardi said the town’s bars and nightclubs, in general, have been adhering to noise regulations.
“It has been relatively quiet all over town,” Ricardi said.
“Officers are issuing tickets when necessary, but maybe it’s a matter of education,” he said of the reason for fewer complaints than in the past. “I don’t think it’s any single reason.”
Police do respond to complaints and Ricardi said officers must use their judgment as to whether or not there was a violation and if a ticket is warranted. The Board of Selectmen also weigh-in when necessary.
Police and selectmen have been working together to ensure the laws are being obeyed, Ricardi said.
“This board has made it known that they’re very serious about noise complaints and any other issues with liquor establishments,” he said. “We can work together – its happening.”
Resident Jack Sinico was in the audience when Rivera was brought before the board and asked why Rivera was called in. Sinico cited several other recent noise complaints at other bars and asked why those owners were not brought before the board.
Pinell said letters were sent to those establishments. Sinico then asked why Rivera did not receive a letter instead of a summons to the meeting.
Pinell said this was the way the board chose to handle the situation and it would possibly send a letter in the future, if necessary.
Ricardi said he does not believe the request to speak to Rivera in person was meant as a reprimand.
“If it was, I would have been there,” he said. “I think it was to say good job, keep up the good work, and make sure they stay on track.”
