Local Business Owners Seek Help From City

The most recent Calvert City Council meeting began with three Calvert citizens asking for the council to redress their issues. Mr. and Mrs. Starr, whose home and business, Starr Studios, is located at 508 Main St. and they contend that the noise and vibration from the local restaurant is disturbing their rest. Cody Bruner, of Cowgirl’s Tavern and Modish, LLC located at 512 Main St., contend that he has done everything within the code and has attempted to work with the Starrs to accommodate them beyond the codes. During the public comment section, Mr. and Mrs. Starr and Mr. Bruner all gave statements to the city council. 

Mrs. Starr began by asking, “What kind of city do we want to become?” She stated that the original permit for a clothing boutique was fitting for the area, but that the owners had continued to expand their business into what is now a live music venue and bar that is causing her to lose rest due to noise and vibration. She explained that she and Mr. Starr had lodged several complaints and that she would like the city to enforce their noise ordinances listed under Article 8.03 in the city codes. “I’m tired,” explained Mrs. Starr to those gathered before stating, “this will lead to Calvert becoming like Austin with vape shops and homeless encampments.”

Mr. Starr reiterated that the noise and vibrations were causing difficulties sleeping and resting. The original stage built for Cowgirl’s Tavern was in their outdoor grotto and was apparently on the other side of the wall from the Starr’s bedroom. Mr. Starr also reiterated the repeated calls for service and requests for local officials to enforce the codes.

Mr. Cody Bruner, of Cowgirl’s Tavern, expressed regret at not being able to work with Mr. and Mrs. Starr to their satisfaction, but contended that he was willing to work with them to minimize the sound and vibration caused by the entertainment venue. “When we discovered that the outdoor stage was causing an issue because it was close to their bedroom, we stopped playing music there and started working on the expansion and moved the stage area. We are hiring sound technicians to ensure that we are limiting bass vibrations and are within the legal decibel levels,” expressed Bruner to the members. 

After both parties had had their chance to speak, the council met in executive session with the City Attorney and deliberated on the situation for more than thirty minutes. After the members returned from Executive session, no action was taken in the matter. 

City Administrator, Sergio Loya expressed hope that both parties can work together for the betterment of downtown Calvert. “Cowgirl’s Tavern has done everything so far to adhere to legal business practices and stick to city ordinances. We appreciate that Mr. Bruner is amenable to working with the Starrs to find a solution that is good for all parties, and the City is happy to help make that happen,” expressed Loya.

Bruner expressed gratitude at the decision, remarking, “I am glad that the City is willing to work with me to bring this great venue to Calvert. We are a family friendly venue that wants to help Calvert grow in a good way.”

Mr. Starr, when reached for comment, remarked that he and his wife stand by the statements made at City Council and that they had nothing further to add.