Arts, Music and Nighttime Economy Minister John Graham expressed his concerns about noise complaints regarding The Joey restaurant in Palm Beach, questioning the definition of a neighbor given the distance between the venue and the nearest houses. Some residents, including former gold trader Kovacs, opposed the extended trading hours of The Joey, citing noise disturbances that negatively impact their quality of life. However, other prominent Palm Beach figures supported the restaurant’s proposal, emphasizing its importance as a community facility and the need for evening dining spots in the area.
Rob Domjen, a co-owner of The Joey, is set to meet with council staff to discuss the decision regarding the venue’s trading hours. The restaurant replaced the now-defunct Cranky Fins, which closed in 2015 due to neighbor complaints that made operating the establishment unenjoyable. The issue of noise pollution, particularly from late-night functions with loud music, has divided the local community, with some residents advocating for the restaurant’s right to operate in the evenings and others seeking to maintain peace and quiet in the neighborhood.
Residents like Kovacs have raised concerns about the impact of the venue’s waterfront location on noise levels, while supporters of The Joey, such as businessman Roger Massy-Greene and property developer Bill Anderson, have emphasized the professionalism of the operators and the need for more evening dining options in Palm Beach. The dispute over The Joey’s trading hours reflects a broader conflict between those who value the area’s tranquility and those who want to see it evolve and cater to the needs of the community.
The involvement of the Palm Beach Protection Group, led by Kovacs, indicates a history of activism in the area, including successful campaigns against dogs on the beach. The group’s actions have influenced council decisions in the past, highlighting the power of local activism in shaping the community’s policies and regulations. The dispute over The Joey’s operating hours may ultimately be resolved through negotiations with the council, avoiding costly legal proceedings in the Land and Environment Court.
Arts Minister John Graham has called for a review of the council’s decision regarding The Joey’s trading hours, urging officials to consider the interests of both the venue and the community. Co-owner Domjen has expressed frustration over the restrictions imposed on the restaurant, leading to tensions with local residents. As the debate over noise pollution and nighttime economy continues in Palm Beach, stakeholders on all sides are seeking a resolution that balances the needs of businesses, residents, and the overall community.
