Commission denies request to extend outdoor music at Tuffy's; approves three street-closure concerts with 10 p.m. hard stop

The Sanford City Commission on Aug. 11 approved three street-closure concert events at Tuffy's Music Box (200 S. Myrtle) but denied the owner's request to extend the required music stop from 10 p.m. to 11 p.m.

Dan St. Pierre, owner of Tuffy's, told the commission the events would close Myrtle Street between Second and Third and asked for a one-hour variance to allow a later end time on three Friday events to accommodate patrons arriving after work. He said the events require time-sensitive preparations (insurance, fencing and promotion) and that a later end time would make the events more marketable.

Neighbors and commissioners raised concerns about the venue's proximity to residential properties. A nearby resident who lives one block from the proposed stage told the commission that outdoor shows have been loud in the past and urged adherence to prior 10 p.m. limits. Commissioners asked staff to ensure broader resident notice and suggested the applicant meet with neighbors; one commissioner said he would like the events to return to the commission before Dec. 12 if additional concerns emerge.

Outcome: The commission approved the three events but unanimously required the 10 p.m. music hard stop. Commissioners noted the applicant could reapply or bring the matter back for further discussion, and they asked staff to ensure residents receive information about the permitted events.

Ending: Tuffy's may proceed with the three live, street-closure concerts under the existing 10 p.m. limit; the operator said he would step back to the 10 p.m. cut-off and promised to comply.