At its May 6 meeting, the Bar Harbor Town Council denied a special amusement permit for Siam Orchid restaurant on Rodick Street after Kennebec Street residents voiced strong concerns about potential noise from amplified music. The permit would have allowed acoustic instruments and amplified vocals outside. Though nearby Lompoc Cafe received a permit renewal, residents stated that Lompoc works with neighbors to manage noise, while Siam Orchid, owned by Hatsana Phanthavong, did not demonstrate similar outreach. The council rarely denies such permits, but has done so before (e.g., Pat’s Pizza in 2023, also partly owned by Phanthavong).
Councilor Matthew Hochman warned that denial based on feelings rather than ordinance could expose the town to legal risk, emphasizing that existing processes and noise ordinances should guide decisions. Council Chair Valerie Peacock and others cited the cumulative impact of outdoor music on Kennebec Street residents. The final vote was 5–2 to deny the permit, with Hochman and Councilor Meg Kelly dissenting. Discussions arose about possibly amending the ordinance to better address residential noise concerns, but no action was taken that night.