Residents Support Newport Yachting Center on Social Media

updated Nov. 13 at 7:40 a.m.

The Newport Waterfront Events posted on their facebook page that they plan to withdraw the variance request from the docket. 

"The reality is that we need to take a step back and allow the City to hold public workshops, during which we will have an opportunity to explain the facts of the variance request and our plans for noise abatement," they wrote. 

original story published Nov. 12

After the Newport Yachting Center, located on Commercial Wharf in Newpor, received three noise citations last summer, the venue has requested a variance to the noise abatement ordinance for all their concerts and festivals held between May 23 and Oct. 31, 2014. The variance exception would end at 9:30 p.m. on weekdays, and 10:00 p.m. on weekends and holidays. 

Newport City Council will hold a public hearing on the issue on Wednesday, Nov. 13 at 6:30 p.m. at Newport City Hall. 

This season’s citations were the first in the 16-year history of the Sunset Music Series, according to Paul O’Reilly, President of Newport Harbor Corporation. He added an independent economic study concluded the series brought in $11,363,055 to Newport this past season.  

“The future of this series is threatened and we are seeking the support of those who enjoy the music, or whose businesses benefit from many of the activities at the Newport Yachting Center,” O’Reilly wrote in a statement.  

On the Newport Patch Facebook page, an overwhelming majority of residents expressed support for the Newport Yachting Center. Of the over 50 comments, only one person said council should not permit the variance. 

John Urban 1000% yes, the noise ordinance situation is out of control in town. I get it in strictly residential areas, but downtown? I seem to remember noise issues with another popular place a few years ago and a not so local well to do local who was reporting it. 

Leah Cruz Yes yes yes! Newport is nothing without tourism. Take away the special events and what do you have Newport?

John Begin If Tony Bennett and Antonia Bennett are singing too loud in Newport we should all deal with it and realize we live in a great community where these things happen and we should embrace it. 

Carrie Lynn Barna It probably wasn't even a local who complained

Todd A Stuart Absolutely not. The towns residents have rights too. A blanket exception would give residents no recourse.

What do you think? Should council approve the variance?  Do you plan to attend the hearing on Wednesday night? Tell us in the comments.