Following an investigation, a New Orleans country club was ordered closed

Following a WDSU Investigates report, the New Orleans Fire Department is now enforcing a cessation of operations at the Algiers Country Club. According to NOFD, the Aurora Recreation Club on General Meyer Avenue closed in May. Algiers’ neighbors were outraged by the late-night pool parties and feared someone could be injured or killed if something was not done. NOFD confirmed Tuesday that the country club must close and wait for proper permits to be approved before reopening. The NOFD statement reads: “On May 28, 2024, a “cease and desist” order was issued for the facility located at 5244 Gen. Meyer, NOLA 70131 pending completion and submission of all appropriate permitting documentation. A NOFD fire inspector responded to this address on the evening of June 7, 2024 to enforce a “cease and desist” following neighbor complaints and NOPD being dispatched to the scene. The New Orleans Police Department responded to a call at the club on Friday evening at 11:16 p.m. NOPD took no action as NOFD inspectors took a cease-and-desist action. WDSU has reached out to the country club owner for comment. The owner said he was at a town hall meeting. At the time of this publication, WDSU is still waiting for an official announcement. It is unclear when or if the club will receive permits. Earlier reports: “We have to step in and stop this city before it’s too late,” said neighbor Gilbert Crowden. “It looks like something college kids do on spring break.” Crowden fears someone may die. Crowden is one of many people in Algiers concerned about events at the Aurora Recreation Club on General Meyer Avenue. “I don’t want to be there at the end of the summer and say we told you something was going to happen in this place,” Crowden said. Neighbors shared videos of noise coming from their homes. “Be a neighbor, keep the noise down at 10 p.m. when everyone should be enjoying their homes,” said neighbor Christy Lynch. “The type of music is extremely vulgar,” said neighbor Patty Jones. “They need to be shut down immediately,” said New Orleans City Councilman Freddie King. “They should be closed today.” King said he received about 30 complaints. “There have been multiple violations at this facility,” King said. . “The first is zoning. It is not designated as a reception facility. It is not designated as a nightclub. King also has serious concerns about the alcohol served. WDSU went to the Aurora Recreation Club to get answers from operator Myles Cooper and asked if he planned to close. “It won’t happen, Cooper said. WDSU showed Cooper’s video from a recent party, which the city says is under investigation. “I agree with the decibel level,” Cooper said. “I can see it potentially harming the neighbors, I definitely see that too. it’s an expression of culture,” Cooper said. WDSU has reached out to Mayor LaToya Cantrell’s office for comment. Her office provided the following information. “The Aurora – Algiers Recreation Club has obtained a permit to operate as a social club at 5244 General Meyer.” “He is waiting for the issuance of a license to operate an alcoholic beverages store (ABO). The live performance license application was not approved and has been closed.” “Events previously advertised and held at this location are not permitted.” WDSU asked if the club could serve alcohol. “Once PA is received, alcohol may be served to members.” “The department has initiated an active investigation based on numerous complaints from neighbors. At least one live performance violation without proper license/permit.” Cooper told WDSU he has certified lifeguards. A spokesman for the mayor said it was “unknown” whether the club had certified lifeguards. “This club isn’t just about the noise they hear one day a week,” Cooper said. “This club does so much more for the community that was not broadcast at the appropriate time that it will be broadcast.” Cooper said he wants to conduct additional conversations with neighbors. “I also have a problem with our privacy being violated. People with cameras are taking pictures of naked people,” Cooper said. “I’m not here to destroy the quality of life here. I’m here to make it better.” Neighbors are worried about children in the club. WDSU asked Cooper whether he thought it was appropriate for children to participate in work groups. “We didn’t do any events for kids inside the event,” Cooper said. “We also have adults who work here. If there is something age inappropriate, I will not allow it. You may have kids working on the periphery, in the middle, while the party is going on. I haven’t seen anything here that consenting adults have done that isn’t done anywhere else in the city. There’s (expletive) shaking in the rest of the city. “While Cooper says the club is safe, neighbors WDSU spoke with say they are open to talking to ensure no one gets hurt. “We’re not picking on anyone,” Crowden said. “We just want a good quality of life, like in every other parish. Something like this wouldn’t happen outside of Orleans Parish. Cantrell’s office did not respond to a question about whether he planned to ask the club to close.