Arts, Music, and Nighttime Economy Minister John Graham criticized the decision to limit the operating hours of The Joey, a restaurant in Palm Beach, due to noise complaints from nearby residents. The restaurant is set to meet with council staff to discuss the ruling. Former noise complaints have been lodged against other local establishments, including the now-closed Cranky Fins. Some residents argue that the waterfront location of The Joey amplifies noise and disturbs the peace of the area.
The owners of The Joey, Rob Domjen and May, have received support from other prominent Palm Beach residents who believe the restaurant is a valuable addition to the community. However, a resident named Kovacs has raised objections to the extended trading hours of the restaurant, claiming that noise from the venue carries far beyond what is acknowledged. Despite conflicting opinions, the council is open to reviewing the decision, potentially avoiding a costly legal battle in court.
Kovacs, known for his previous efforts to ban dogs from the beach, has been particularly vocal in opposing The Joey’s extended hours. He accuses the venue of causing noise pollution and impacting the mental health of residents. Meanwhile, the owners maintain that they are not disrupting the peace and simply wish to operate like any other restaurant in the area. Mayor Sue Heins has indicated that the council is willing to discuss options for revisiting the decision.
The dispute over The Joey highlights a division within the Palm Beach community regarding the balance between economic development and residential tranquility. While some residents appreciate the vibrancy that The Joey brings to the area, others are concerned about the impact of increased nighttime activity. The council is facing pressure to mediate the situation in a way that satisfies both parties and maintains the overall harmony of the neighborhood.
The Andersons, supporters of The Joey, expressed frustration with what they perceive as resistance to change from certain long-standing residents of Palm Beach. They argue that the objections are premature, as the restaurant has not yet been proven to cause disturbances. On the other hand, Jones, one of the main objectors, asserts that his concerns are based on past experiences with noise and disruptions from neighboring establishments.
The fate of The Joey in Palm Beach hinges on the outcome of the council’s review of the decision to limit its trading hours. The owners hope to come to a resolution that allows them to continue operating in the evenings without causing undue disruptions to the community. The ongoing conflict underscores the challenges faced by businesses seeking to balance commercial success with respect for their neighbors in a tightly-knit residential area.
