Village Officials to Chat Music Merits on Main Street

With the outdoor season for Main Street eateries quickly approaching, the Village of Westhampton Beach resolved, on Thursday night, to hold a discussion at it's April 18 work session to discuss music permits.

According to Rebecca Molinaro, village clerk, village trustees must discuss details of the permitting process before music can go live on Main Street in May.

To date, Molinaro says some three permits requests have been received by the clerk's office and there are some conflicts when it comes to date and times.

She said, "Music on Main Street has expended over the years and I suggest that a discussion is held."

Trustee Sue Farrell said that noise on Main Street has become a concern in recent years and discussion is necessary with Deputy Mayor Toni-Jo Birk agreeing.

Birk had actually brought it the village's attention in October, asking for support to stagger musical performances on Main Street to prevent excess noise in the summer.

At the time, the idea was not met with harmonious agreement. All of her fellow trustees said they didn't see an issue.

Hank Tucker said in years past, yes, music has posed a problem, but stricter regulations on amplification have amply address the issue.

Simon Jorna, owner of the Beach Bakery, rose to the podium on Thursday night to question why music permits were not being approved, given that according to the village code, music is allowed, starting May 2.

Jorna, also stated that without knowing if a permit will be in place, it is difficult to get musicians to commit to performances.

"Musicians have schedules," said Jorna.

However, trustees assured that the board can open the next April work session to approve permits if necessary.