Cafe Zoe at 1929 Menalto Avenue is applying to the City for a permit to operate as an outdoor concert venue. I live across the street from Cafe Zoe, at 1920 Menalto. I recognize the cafe's importance in the lives of many, including musicians, artists, veterans and local government. Indeed, for many years I enjoyed countless hours at Cafe Zoe.
Over the last year, however, while Cafe Zoe was holding outdoor concerts without a permit, I was persistently subjected to sustained noise levels up to 80 decibels in my home. 80 dB is the equivalent of a gas powered lawnmower. If I needed to talk on the phone during concerts, I had to go into my bathroom and close the door in order for the caller and I to hear each other. For those with little ones who need to sleep, and who don’t have the luxury of a 9-to-5 work schedule, these concerts significantly impacted our quality of life. If the City grants this permit, it would affect residents on Menalto Avenue and Oak Court personally and financially -- not only would we continue to be subjected to the deafening noise, but this would be a mandatory disclosure to any potential homebuyer, potentially lowering property values.
While these unauthorized outdoor concerts are at this moment on hold while Cafe Zoe applies for a permit, I fear a return of the acoustic assault if it is approved. On this quiet, residential block, outdoor concerts are clearly not reasonable or appropriate. The physical location of this business is simply in too close proximity to multiple residential properties to allow for the sound waves to dissipate before reaching the neighboring homes. Because I am a reasonable person and I understand the value Cafe Zoe brings to the community, I would support an indoor music permit, but not an outdoor music permit.
I beg of you to please help me preserve my right to peaceful enjoyment of my home by voting NO on this permit application.
Sincerely,
Elizabeth McCarthy
1920 Menalto Avenue
