ST. PETE BEACH, Fla. (WFLA) — Dozens of residents attended a max capacity City Commission meeting in St. Pete Beach Tuesday, despite the item of contention not being on the agenda.

Musicians, businessowners, entertainers, and locals spoke during public comment — all rejecting the possibility of a noise ordinance on the barrier island.

“How many jobs will we lose, from the servers, the cooks, the general managers to the entertainers? It’s scary,” said Robert Kehr, a local bar manager.

Two hours of public comment occurred, including a mandatory removal of one resident. Many public speakers banded together with signs, t-shirts, and other props.

“We’re not trying to ruffle feathers, but at the same time, we got to stand up for ourselves a little bit,” said Seth Campbell, a musician.

The discussion of a noise ordinance began at a January 2025 meeting, where staff heard ideas after receiving numerous code enforcement noise violations in the city, specifically in high-traffic areas with bars and restaurants.

Conversations focused on a similar model used in nearby Collier County to the south, including quiet hours from 7 p.m. – 7 a.m., and decibel limitations for areas near residential properties. No formal ordinance has been drafted, according to city commissioners.

“Dramatic, loss of jobs, loss of revenue, and ultimately, a loss of cultural life. The cultural heritage that we have that’s been established for several decades,” added Geoff Caputo, a retired musician.

Since that January meeting, city commissioners have hosted a town hall and discussions on the idea. If an ordinance is drafted, it would need two separate readings and a vote to be passed. No timetable for that exists, according to commissioners.

“A town without music? It’s going to die,” Campbell said.