One of the issues addressed during the meeting was the reduction of sound decibel levels for the venue. The decision to lower the allowable decibel level to 98 DB was based on real-time readings from the previous year’s events and aimed to mitigate neighborhood noise concerns. The board requested more frequent sound monitoring reports and sought clarification on monitoring locations, complaint logging processes, and the functionality of the live event hotline for real-time response to issues.

Moreover, the board reviewed security protocols and emergency response plans for the venue. The discussions encompassed the deployment of third-party security staff, their identification, and the delineation of their roles, such as door management and crowd monitoring. The board showed particular interest in the procedures for entrance and exit points, emergency egresses, re-entry policies, bag search procedures, and the policy on the allowance of bags within the venue. A written breakdown of the security staff’s roles was requested, along with further details on bag search policies, considering clear bags and the list of prohibited items.

The presence of police and EMS at events was another focal point. The applicant plans for multiple police departments and EMS teams to be on-site, including arrangements for overtime pay if needed. The board highlighted the importance of promptly calling police and an ambulance for any injured or intoxicated patrons and insisted on keeping a log of such incidents. Additionally, the board discussed the timing of alcohol service, wristbands, ID checking procedures, and the prevention of alcohol pass-offs. A comprehensive traffic management plan was requested, which should include entrance and exit strategies and details on the number of staff dedicated to alcohol compliance.

Community events were also part of the discussion. The applicant mentioned hosting several daytime community events, such as a wounded vet motorcycle ride, Girls on the Run 5K, and a soccer fundraiser. Concerns from elected officials, representatives, and community members included noise, traffic, and the potential impact on wildlife and local students.

The meeting commenced with community concerns over traffic, noise, and parking issues, notably the prolonged travel times and the need for more residential parking restrictions. The impact of ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft on the neighborhood was also noted. In response, the applicant discussed some of these issues, and emails from abutters were submitted to the board for consideration.

Captain Bickerton brought up questions regarding contracting with a private ambulance service, ejections from the venue, alcohol compliance, beverage purchase limits, and the execution of sound tests. He also emphasized the necessity for security personnel to be easily identifiable among the crowd. Additionally, the value of the event space was acknowledged by Maline Stazinski, co-founder and director of Zumix, who also noted the potential career opportunities for students involved in the organization. The meeting concluded with discussions on the placement and number of security cameras, both in the venue and parking lot, and the policies regarding the retention of camera footage, with the division ultimately taking the matter under advisement.