Bartaco Fenway Seeks to Introduce Outdoor Music Amid Local Concerns at Boston Entertainment Application Board

In the recent meeting of the Boston Entertainment Application Board, the primary focus was on the application by Bartaco Fenway LLC to add outdoor music through speakers on their patio until 11 PM daily. Attorney Dennis Quilty, representing Bartaco Fenway, along with operations personnel Kelsey Nas, presented their case, emphasizing the amenity would be at a conversational level and not disrupt the neighborhood. Despite an abutters meeting held a year prior which did not raise significant objections, Quilty acknowledged the Fenway Civic Association’s standing opposition to outdoor music, framing the restriction as potentially excessive for the vibrant and active Fenway area, which is home to Fenway Park and numerous establishments with outdoor patios.

During the hearing, questions were directed at the details of the patio’s operation, including its seasonal nature, location on private property, and the need for appropriate approvals and landlord permissions for outdoor music.

The board’s queries also addressed a mistake in obtaining approvals for a sidewalk versus private patio and sought clarification and documentation on the adjustment of the space. A request for a letter from the landlord, if the lease does not specifically allow for outdoor music, was also made.

Concerns were raised regarding complaints about indoor music levels and the potential for noise disturbances from the outdoor speakers. The applicant assured the board of their commitment to adhere to noise ordinances and to address any further complaints.

The representative from the Mayor’s Office suggested deferring to the board’s judgment, noting the Fenway Civic Association’s strong stance against music amplification outdoors due to concerns about setting a precedent that might lead to noise issues for nearby residential units.

Note: This meeting summary was generated by AI, which can occasionally misspell names, misattribute actions, and state inaccuracies. This summary is intended to be a starting point and you should review the meeting record linked above before acting on anything you read. If we got something wrong, let us know. We’re working every day to improve our process in pursuit of universal local government transparency.

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