After many months of campaigning, speaking with local businesses and residents, engaging with the council, and attempting to initiate dialogue with the owner of Carib De L’Afrique, I have decided to formally step away from this issue.

Despite overwhelming community support — with over 217 signatures on the petition — and a series of articles in the Hastings Independent, we appear to have reached an impasse. The noise continues, and attempts at constructive conversation with the restaurant owner have been firmly rejected, even when offered in good faith and face-to-face.

I want to thank every one of you who signed, shared, and supported this peaceful and lawful petition. Your voices matter. Your support was never in vain. While the council may currently lack the tools to take decisive action, I trust this public record of concern will be seriously considered when the restaurant's licence is next up for review or renewal.

This campaign was always about making our shared spaces a little more peaceful, respectful, and liveable. I still believe in that vision, even if we weren't able to achieve it this time.

With gratitude and warmest thanks,
A Concerned Citizen.