Wooly's still at risk without new noise rules, co-owner warns
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Wooly's liquor license appears to be safe for now, but co-owner Josh Ivey says the venue's future remains under threat until the city provides permanent noise exemptions for performance spaces.
The big picture: After a zoning enforcement officer recommended the city reconsider its liquor license due to noise ordinance violations, live music fans across Des Moines rallied in support of the venue, including the Historic East Village Board of Directors.
- City officials spoke with "the parties involved and reached a solution that respects the interests of both our local businesses and residents," according to a statement released by the city Friday.
Yes, but: Ivey warns this is only a Band-Aid fix. "If we don't get a solution, all we're doing is just waiting for the next person to move in or any other live venues are still going to be under the same situation," he says.
- He wants the city to explore lifting some sound restrictions for music venues like his, noting that ambient street noise can sometimes be louder than the current 65 decibels.
Flashback: The zoning enforcement officer's recommendation came after noise levels immediately outside Wooly's exceeded 65 decibels, the most allowed by the city.
- Two complaints had been filed by nearby property owner Chuck Larson, who had argued that sound checks during the day were disruptive, Axios previously reported.
What they're saying: "The intent was never to shut down Wooly's," the city statement said Friday, noting that Des Moines is home to "diverse industries" and a municipal code that attempts to balance them.
What's next: Des Moines officials say they plan to convene music experts and city staff to reexamine the city's sound ordinances for music venues.