Councilman Peter Murphy moved to table two ordinances tonight so the City Council's Legal and Legislative Committee, which he chairs, can improve the language of each.
The first prohibits future nightclubs from opening within 1000 feet of a residence. Councilman Murphy expressed concern over the language, saying that the distance requirement "sets up artificial property lines."
Some Brainerd residents had mixed feelings over the 1000 ft. ordinance as well. Jackie Marlin said that the current ordinance represents the collision of two problems. She said, "Everyone has a right to have a good time," but the loud activity from nearby nightclubs keeps her from enjoying her weekend in peace and quiet.
The ordinance, alongside another nightclub ordinance, was tabled for two weeks from tonight.
The ongoing discussion to establish an Audit Committee and procedures for the City Council Auditor position was tabled for an additional week at the request of Councilman Murphy.
David Morton
twitter-14716955 on May 26, 2009
Well, this has all the makings of disaster. I agree with having ordinances, but a specific number of feet is a "one size fits all" approach that likely will not stick.
Robert Sindler on May 27, 2009
Seriously. What happened to enforcing ordinances that already exist?
facebook-56704861 on May 27, 2009
So where are they going to put clubs and late night music venues? Lee Highway? Sure, let's have businesses take turns using that one club space near the old target LOL.
mattdaviss on May 27, 2009
Hmm, true that, and what qualifies as a 'residence'. I'll have to see if that's specified in the ordinance.
DavidMorton on May 28, 2009
The ordinance currently reads:
"The property line of any such use (cabarets, dance clubs, music clubs, nightclubs, etc.) shall be located more than 1000 feet away from the nearest boundary of any residential zone."
That would include all R zoning, and potentially, mixed use development. Ironically, existing businesses will be grandfathered in, which means Club Deep Blue may not even be affected by the change.
I've got a couple queries out on that last point. We'll see.