Proposed Vassalboro, Maine Wedding Venue Draws Neighbor Concerns

A proposed wedding and event venue in Vassalboro is moving closer to approval, but the owners still have a few issues to address before getting the green light.

According to the Kennebec Journal, Ratesha and Keith Rosell hope to open the venue at 546 Webber Pond Road, currently home to an air strip and shooting range. The Vassalboro Planning Board indicated it could approve the project once the couple addresses concerns involving traffic, property buffers and noise.

During a three-hour meeting Tuesday, several neighbors raised concerns about increased traffic, visibility of the venue and possible noise from weddings and other events.

Because Webber Pond Road is a state road, the planning board is requiring a Maine Department of Transportation review to determine whether the driveway is adequate and whether the expected traffic would create safety concerns.

Some neighbors also questioned whether there is enough visual screening between the property and nearby homes. Vassalboro Code Enforcement Officer Eric Currie is expected to measure existing tree buffers and determine whether additional trees or shrubs are needed, The KJ said.

Noise was another major concern. The Rosells previously tested music levels from the property using an iPhone app and said the results appeared to meet town standards. Neighbors requested a more formal test, and Currie said he plans to use a decibel meter when inspecting the property.

Residents also expressed concern about noise from guests, vehicles and activity at the end of events. The Rosells said they expect guests to be respectful and do not believe everyone would leave at the same time.

Planning Board Chair Virginia Brackett reminded residents that the board must judge the project based on existing town ordinances.

“We cannot make this commercial enterprise disappear from anyone’s view,” Brackett said.

The Rosells are expected to return with the requested information at the next planning board meeting, scheduled for 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 6, at 682 Main St.