The City of Albany held a public hearing on April 29, 2025, to discuss the proposed cabaret license for Dive Bar, located on Lark Street. The meeting featured several residents expressing their concerns regarding the potential impact of the license on neighborhood quality of life.

The first speaker, a resident who has lived in the area for over four years, voiced strong opposition to the license approval. He highlighted the disruptive noise from Dive Bar, particularly during karaoke nights, which often extends past the designated midnight cutoff. He described how the sound penetrates his home, affecting his family's comfort and raising concerns about the establishment's future operations under a cabaret license. He emphasized the importance of maintaining a livable neighborhood and urged the council to consider the experiences of local families over the economic interests of a single business.

Monica Gray, another resident, echoed these sentiments, stating that while she enjoys the sounds of city life, amplified music creates a different and disruptive atmosphere. She noted that the noise from Dive Bar and other nearby establishments has made it difficult for residents to enjoy their homes. Gray urged the council to reject the cabaret license, fearing it would exacerbate existing noise issues.

Richard Nagengast, who lives nearby, also spoke against the license, expressing concern about the cumulative noise from multiple venues in the area. He acknowledged the importance of nightlife but warned that another bar with a cabaret license would make the neighborhood unlivable.

Roger Gray, Monica's husband, reinforced the call to oppose the license, arguing that the neighborhood already has enough bars and that the city should focus on promoting family-friendly businesses instead. He pointed out that the amplified music from Dive Bar disrupts the quiet enjoyment of their homes and contributes to disorderly conduct in the vicinity.

The hearing concluded with a clear message from residents: the potential approval of a cabaret license for Dive Bar raises significant concerns about noise and neighborhood stability. The council is expected to weigh these community voices as they consider the application.