Naples
Small waterside communities are losing their ability to play live music as the city of Naples said it violated recreational permits.
Last year, the city said it would have live entertainment on Wednesdays, but only Thursday through Sunday are allowed.
The people WINK News met weren’t satisfied, believing that live music brings people together and makes the Bayfront community unique.
Bayfront has everything from bay view condominiums, marina shops, restaurants, bars, live entertainment and more.
But at the Naples City Council on Wednesday, the city stripped the bayfront of permits after two official violations. People who work on the Bayfront, like Nick Costanza, said it would be bad for business.
“Oh yeah, they brought a lot of people. It was fun for us as workers, too,” Costanza said.
Last December, a live band played on Wednesdays, according to documents.
Permits only allow Thursday through Sunday from 12:00pm to 9:00pm.
The second violation occurred in May when police officers on patrol measured noise levels above acceptable levels.
Kevin Stoneburner, the property’s owner, said a minority of these noises could be affected by ambient sounds like loud cars.
Bayfront employee Prestin Speers shared some thoughts with WINK News on what’s going on.
“It’s a little sad that when we put together such a small community, they want to revoke our license,” Spears said.
Bayfront resident Andrew Martrano explained his thoughts from a different angle.
“I don’t think the few should speak for the many,” said Martrano.
What happens next remains to be seen, but the owner said the decision was unreasonable and unfair.