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Say no to disruptive noise in the borough

James Quinn Stonington

Publication: The Day

Published 03/09/2010 12:00 AM
Updated 03/09/2010 06:03 AM

Dog Watch Cafe in Stonington is seeking to expand its outdoor seating, change rules to allow larger waterfront restaurants and provide outdoor entertainment. The Zoning Commission should reject these proposals.

Granting the requests would irreparably harm a community focused on preserving its singular relationship to the waterfront. This relationship is based on the notion that residents should be able to savor the shore with minimal intrusion by disruptive elements. These considerations prompted the commission to adopt its waterfront regulations. The possibility of enhancing the private commercial success of a bar/restaurant doesn't justify abandoning the overriding objectives of the community and the related regulations.

The prospect of music ricocheting around the harbor, more dining tables outside, a venue that invites tour buses, increased boat traffic in a clogged area of moorings and docks and increased vehicle traffic on crowded streets threatens everything the borough has safeguarded. Added disruptions would ruin the ability of many residents to quietly enjoy the waterfront. It wouldn't be fair to them, and it would be an affront to the heritage of the borough.

I don't live near Dog Watch, but that doesn't diminish my interest in respecting my neighbors' rights. The commission should do the same.

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