Large-venue moratorium

Opposed extending the moratorium, saying the council already did its work and there is no emergency justifying emergency passage.

Urged the moratorium's end, arguing traffic and competition concerns don't hold up and questioning whether opposition is grassroots or astroturf by Live Nation's rivals.

An attorney for Portland Music Holdings said his clients have worked with the city in good faith, disputed the buffer-zone and parking claims, and asked that the moratorium end within 30-60 days.

Supported the extension, rejecting astroturf claims and saying the huge public turnout shows genuine community concern.

Executive director of the Grassroots and Organic Maine Music Alliance urged a 180-day extension, citing pending Live Nation litigation, the buffer ordinance process, and unresolved safety questions.

Encouraged extension, citing the overwhelming constituent turnout in support of the original moratorium and the need for due diligence.

The Portland Music Hall developer said his project asks for no variances or public money, quoted the planning director's memo against a fixed buffer, and called the moratorium a targeted retroactive zoning change.

A Merrill Auditorium performer detailed flaws in the parking survey, handicapped parking conflicts, and evacuation concerns, asking the survey be redone during peak season.