PUBLICATION: The New York Times
DATE: September 7, 1997
SECTION: Section 13; Page 13; Column 1; The City Weekly Desk
BYLINE: Carleton Freedman
DATELINE: New York, New York
ACTIVISTS, INDIVIDUALS, AND GROUPS MENTIONED: Carleton Freedman, resident and reporter
The New York Times printed an editorial in which the writer complains about the noise from ice cream trucks in New York City. The editorial discusses how it is virtually impossible to enforce the current rules regarding noise from the trucks
According to the editorial, the noise from ice cream trucks is non-stop in New York between April and October. The editorial writer fantasizes about driving such a truck past the Mayor's mansion to raise his consciousness about the nuisance. The writer adds that the disruption itself is not as bad as the realization that there seems to be no way to get authorities to act on it.
The writer details his experience in trying to get action on this topic. He says he and his Councillor have written scores of letters to the Environmental Protection Department, and he adds if you send enough letters and get lucky, the department may send a "warning" letter to the ice-cream vendor threatening a fine of from $175 to $700. The department sent the writer a copy of one such letter which informed the vendor that Section 24-221(e) of the city's Noise Control Code limits the use of jingles and music to "once every 10 minutes in any one city block and with a duration of no more than 10 seconds." The editorial writer goes on to say that you can just imagine the vendor and his buddies at the garage enjoying a laugh over that letter. One vendor in Borough Park doesn't even shut off his jingle when he gets gas, the writer says.
The way to solve this decades-long disregard of the law, the writer says, is to make a few vendors pay the fines they are threatened with. If a few violators paid the stiff fines, the writer argues, the rest of the vendors would quickly decide that the extra sales produced by ignoring the law weren't worth the risk of a fine. One deputy mayor wrote to the writer that "the transient nature of such vendors poses obvious difficulties for enforcement." But, the editorial writer says, this is not true, because it's virtually impossible to drive or bike any distance in many areas, such as Brooklyn, without finding one or two of the ice cream trucks.
The editorial writer concludes that the problem is a lack of resolve and perhaps some misplaced humanitarianism. For example, he cites a public radio broadcaster who complained about the noisy trucks but said he sympathized with the vendors because they are, after all, just people struggling to make a living. But, the writer points out, the vendors who violate the law have an unfair advantage over those who observe it. Instead of worrying about ice cream vendors, the writer says, how about thinking of the New York City Housing Authority Symphony, which plays outdoor concerts to lower-income people, and must compete with "jingle-playing ice cream trucks."
In conclusion, the writer says the Mayor should deputize him and allow him to issue violations with the promise that the fines will be imposed. The "ice-cream-jingle vexation" will be ancient history in two weeks flat, the writer claims.
PUBLICATION: The Virginian-Pilot (Norfolk, VA)
DATE: September 12, 1997
SECTION: Front, Pg. A9
BYLINE: Aleta Payne
DATELINE: Virginia Beach, Virginia
The Virginian-Pilot reports that according to a draft Environmental Impact Statement report regarding expansion of the U.S. Navy's Oceana Naval Air Station in Virginia Beach, Virginia, one-fourth of schools in the city would have to be moved or shielded against jet noise if the project is carried out. The report also found that two schools would be in the jet base's potential crash area, 22 schools would be in a high-noise zone, and two schools which had previously been in the base's crash zone (one of which has been moved) would no longer be in the new potential crash zone.
According to the article, the two elementary schools that would be within the base's potential crash area are Brookwood and Plaza, which are located next to each other near Lynnhaven Mall. According to Robert Matthias, assistant to Virginia Beach's city manager, the schools are just barely within the potential crash zone, and making "some minor changes in the operation procedures at Oceana" might move the schools out of the zone. However, if this is not done, the schools would have to be relocated.
The article goes on to say that Brookwood, Plaza, and 20 other schools in Virginia Beach would be in a high-noise zone for the base, and would require modifications to diminish sound levels. Another school, Chesapeake's Butts Road Intermediate School already is in the high-noise zone of Fentress Airfield, the article notes. According to Tony Arnold, director of facilities planning and construction for the Virginia Beach school district, noise abatement measures that might be required in the schools include new windows and additional insulation. Arnold added that he did not know what such work would cost, but pointed out that the cost would depend on the condition of each building.
The article says that the most startling conclusion in the report is that Linkhorn Park Elementary School, which was calculated to be in the base's potential crash zone in 1994, is not in the new potential crash zone. In 1994, the city agreed to relocate the school as a show of its desire for the air base to remain open and expand. But now, the article reports, with the construction of the $12 million school halfway done, it appears the move was unnecessary.
In addition, the city agreed to relocate the Seatack Elementary School in 1994, which was also in the potential crash zone. Under the new report, Seatack is no longer considered to be in the crash zone, although its playgound is, the article reports. Arnold said the school district would go forward with its plans to relocate the school. "As far as we're concerned, the drawings are being finished up and it will be bid together with New Castle (an elementary school scheduled to open in 1999) in the spring," he said.
The article also points out that if the Oceana base expands, more than 2,000 new students, most of elementary age, are expected to move into the area. Ken Lumpkin, the school district's demographer, said the school district won't have a problem with this increased enrollment, as long as growth occurs where it's predicted -- in the areas served by Christopher Farms Elementary and Corporate Landing Middle schools, and in other areas where new construction is underway.
PUBLICATION: The Virginian-Pilot (Norfolk, VA)
DATE: September 12, 1997
SECTION: Front, Pg. A1
BYLINE: John Murphy
DATELINE: Virginia Beach, Virginia
The Virginian-Pilot reports that a U.S. Navy draft report released Thursday recommends that all 11 Navy jet squadrons and 180 jets (Hornets) at the soon-to-close Cecil Field near Jacksonville, Florida be transferred to the Oceana Naval Air Station in Virginia Beach, Virginia. The article reports that although the expansion of the base in Virginia Beach would bring economic benefits, it would also increase jet noise in residential neighborhoods, congested roads, and population, including an influx of children into the school district. The article notes that at this stage, the plan is only a draft, and still could change as a result of politics and more review by critics and the Navy.
According to the article, if all 11 F/A-18 squadrons come to Virginia Beach, the Navy will have 5,600 more military and civilian employees at the base, up from a current 8,100. The new employees would bring spouses and children, adding another 6,900 residents to the region. Of the 12,500 newcomers, about 75% are expected to settle in Virginia Beach, the article says. The base's new employees would earn average salaries of $27,000 each, putting $226 million into the local economy. That would raise the air base's economic impact to $719 million a year, the article reports.
In addition, the article says, construction and renovation to the air base would place another $94 million into the region's economy. And an additional 1,190 private sector jobs are expected as a result of increased construction projects and demand on local merchants and suppliers.
However, the article explains, the expansion comes with a price of reduced quality-of-life for some residents. With the expansion, a total of 22,000 acres would be added to the high-jet-noise zone areas surrounding the base in which noise is expected to reach 65 decibels or higher. That land is home to 38,983 people in Virginia Beach and Chesapeake, and includes 22 schools in Virginia Beach and one in Chesapeake. Some of these schools would require expensive changes to insulate them against jet noise. Two schools in Virginia Beach, Brookwood and Plaza Elementary, would fall within the base's potential accident zones, where crashes are most likely. Additional impacts to schools include the 2,700 school-age children that the military employees would bring to Virginia Beach and Chesapeake.
The increased noise over the homes and schools would result from a doubling in the amount of air traffic residents would see and hear, the article reports. Annual flights at Oceana would grow from 109,000 to 237,000, while annual flights at Fentress Airfield in Chesapeake would increase from the current 105,000 to 158,000.
In addition, there are other environmental impacts to the base expansion, including increased traffic congestion. The article says that traffic congestion is likely to increase on the roads leading to Oceana, particularly Oceana Boulevard between Bells Road and Princess Anne Road, and Virginia Beach already has planned a $50 million widening project for the road.
In Chesapeake, city staff members said they had little information about the base expansion's impact on the town. Chesapeake Mayor William Ward said, "We certainly welcome the enhancements of this military concentration, and we certainly welcome the families and jobs that will be created. However, we need to minimize the impact on the residents of Chesapeake and Virginia Beach. This looks good indeed on paper, but on the other hand, we have to be very careful about our support of the relocation and how it will affect the quality of life of our residents and their neighborhoods." Brent Nielson, Chesapeake Planner, said the extension of noise zones around Fentress would affect some residential neighborhoods, mostly located around the intersection of Centerville Turnpike and Mount Pleasant Road. The only Chesapeake school to be included in the new noise zone is Butts Road Intermediate, but school spokesperson Tom Cupitt said it was not clear whether the building would need to be modified. Chesapeake's comprehensive plan, which guides how land in the city is used, currently is being revised and could be affected by the Navy expansion. Neilson noted that much of the land around Fentress is wetlands and thus undevelopable.
Meanwhile, Virginia Beach Mayor Meyera Oberndorf and Chesapeake Mayor Ward said their staffs will meet to discuss the Navy's report. Officials at Virginia Beach said the city would hire a consultant to deal with changes in high-noise areas who would also be made available to help Chesapeake.
The article also mentions that in 1993, the Oceana base was targeted as a candidate for closing. But city officials worked with U.S. Rep. Owen Pickett to save the base. According to Virginia Beach City Manager James Spore, if the new planes don't come to Oceana, "the air station would quietly atrophy . . . and a long period of decline would set in."
PUBLICATION: AFX News
DATE: September 11, 1997
SECTION: Company News; Regulatory Actions; Company News; Statistics
DATELINE: Amsterdam, Netherlands
AFX News reports that three airlines said in a combined statement that the new regulations to mitigate noise levels at Amsterdam's Schiphol Airport will have far-reaching, damaging consequences for them, and could severely damage the reputation of Schiphol as a high-quality European airport. The airlines that released the statement were KLM Royal Dutch Airlines NV, Transavia, and Martinair.
According to the article, the statement said if the proposed measures are introduced, KLM and its partners will have difficulty with their present operations and with future expansion, leading to damages of "hundreds of millions of guilders," not counting indirect damages which would be much greater. The statement also stressed that KLM's contribution to the Dutch economy and employment will be hurt.
According to the statement, the regulations also would severely hinder KLM (whose home base airport is Schiphol) in developing its "global airline system" with its partners, and would make the company less attractive as a partner. The airlines' statement said that many passengers likely will choose a different airport or transfer airport and a different airline if Schiphol can no longer function as a "mainport" by the year-end. Passengers who will suffer from missed connections on all the airlines that use Schiphol will amount to 6,000 per day, with those on KLM and its partners' flights amounting to 4,000 of that total, the statment said.
The article goes on to say that the airlines also believe the regulations would have negative environmental effects, because many aircraft would be required to circle in a holding position for lengthy times, increasing energy use and emissions.
The airlines also addressed the noise issue at the airport, the article reports. They said that legal noise limits have been slightly exceeded at only a few of the more than 400 measuring points the airport uses. They added that the number of homes affected by noise problems will be only 12,270 this year, compared with the maximum allowable number of 15,100.
The article goes on to say that the airlines said they want to work together with the airport and the government to solve the problems, including improving noise effeciency by measures such as changes in flight procedures and quieter engines, and discussing the need to complete the fifth runway as soon as possible. The government's plan for the airport to be a "mainport" will not be achieved if little or no growth can occur at the airport until the fifth runway is finished, they maintained.
PUBLICATION: ANP English News Bulletin
DATE: September 11, 1997
DATELINE: Amsterdam, Netherlands
ACTIVISTS, INDIVIDUALS, AND GROUPS MENTIONED: Vereniging Geen Uitbreiding Schiphol (GEUS), a residents' group from Aalsmeer
ANP English News Bulletin reports that Hans Smits, director of Amsterdam's Schiphol Airport, announced Wednesday that he will step down from his position to become vice chair of the Rabobank. During much of Smits' five-year tenure at the airport, Schipol has been surrounded by cotroversy regarding expansion plans. In a separate move on Wednesday, the residents' group GEUS (Vereniging Geen Uitbreiding Schiphol) called on Transport Minister Annemarie Jorritsma to reduce noise from the airport by 20%, alleging that Jorritsma is not keeping the airport within the legal noise limits.
The article reports that Smits begin his new job on May 1, 1998. Transport Minister Annemarie Jorritsma will have the deciding vote in selecting Smits' successor, due to the fact that the state owns 75% of the airport, while the cities of Amsterdam and Rotterdam own 22.8% and 2.2% respectively.
Meanwhile, GEUS, a residents' group from Aalsmeer which is strongly against the expansion of the airport, called on Jorritsma to reduce noise from the airport by 20% by submitting a request to the Council of State, the country's highest judicial body. The group claims that Jorritsma is not keeping within the noise limits set down in the so-called PKB (strategic policy decision) this year. According to GEUS, the policy decision calls for Schiphol to emit 20% less noise during the day and night than the specified legal limit. The article concludes that no date has been set for the hearing.
PUBLICATION: The Atlanta Journal
DATE: September 11, 1997
SECTION: State News; Pg. 04B
BYLINE: Maria Lameiras
DATELINE: Newton County, Georgia
ACTIVISTS, INDIVIDUALS, AND GROUPS MENTIONED: LeAnne Long, Newton County Commissioner
The Atlanta Journal reports that County Commissioners in Newton County, Georgia are considering adopting a noise ordinance that would limit a wide range of noises, including excessive noise from car horns, loud music, noisy animals, and ice cream truck music.
According to the article, Newton County was largely farmland only 10 years ago, but since 1990, it has grown from 40,000 to 55,000, with many new subdivisions. In response to the growth, County Commissioner LeAnne Long has sponsored a proposed noise ordinance that, among other things, would limit many noise disturbances such as construction or machinery to the hours of 11 p.m. and 6 a.m. Long said, "One instance that pops into mind whenever I talk about the need for a noise ordinance is that when they were building the Kroger on [Ga. 212 at Ga. 20], they were behind schedule so they were working at 4 a.m., and that's a residential area." The proposed ordinance has some exemptions, such as for county vehicles "engaged in necessary public business," and for nighttime county or state excavations or street repairs that can't be done during the day. Long added that she looked at noise ordinances from nine metro Atlanta counties for comparison to the proposed Newton ordinance, the article says. Under the proposed ordinance, the sheriff's department would issue citations, and violations could be punished by fines up to $1,000 and up to 60 days in jail.
The article concludes that the County Commission is expected to vote on the noise ordinance at its next meeting on September 16.
PUBLICATION: Canada NewsWire Ltd
DATE: September 11, 1997
SECTION: Domestic News
DATELINE: Mississauga, Ontario, Canada
ACTIVISTS, INDIVIDUALS, AND GROUPS MENTIONED: Pat Saito, Ward 9 Councillor
Canada NewsWire Ltd reports that the Mississauga, Ontario Council adopted a resolution today that opposes night flights at the Toronto area Lester B. Pearson International Airport (LBPIA). The article goes on to print the resolution the Council adopted.
According to the article, Councillor Pat Saito (Ward 9), said, "We have to take a firm position on this and make sure the Minister of Transport and the GTAA [Greater Toronto Airports Authority] know how Council and our residents feel." The article says that the Mississauga Council became concerned when the GTAA submitted a draft noise management agreement that would give GTAA the authority to allow flights at Pearson at currently restricted times. Before the GTAA released the draft noise management agreement, the city was awaiting endorsement from the GTAA on agreements dealing with operating restrictions and general development issues at the airport, the article says.
The article also printed the full text of the Council's resolution, as follows:
Resolution 253-97, adopted by the Council of The Corporation of the City of Mississauga
Whereas the GTAA is proposing to enter into an agreement with the air carriers that states that "The GTAA may permit scheduled operations at its sole discretion and on such terms and conditions as the GTAA may impose from time to time" (sec.2.5); And Whereas the authority to grant such permission rests with the Federal Minister of Transportation and not with the GTAA; And Whereas the City of Mississauga and GTAA are currently negotiating agreements with regards to operating restrictions and development; Therefore be it resolved that the Federal Minister of Transport be advised that the City of Mississauga is opposed to any potential amendment to the Canada Air Pilot that would remove the current noise operating restrictions in relation to L.B.P.I.A.; And Further That the City of Mississauga requests that should the Minister of Transport receive a request from the GTAA to so amend the Canada Air Pilot, the Minister so notify The Corporation of the City of Mississauga in order for Council to comment on any proposed amendment; And That the Minister be informed that Council reaffirms Resolutions 7-92 and 33-97 which oppose scheduled operations during the night flight restriction program; And That all City of Mississauga agreements with the GTAA concerning operating restrictions be fully executed and effective prior to any consideration of a noise management agreement with the air carriers or any similar agreement being entered into by the GTAA and any other party; And that a copy of this resolution be forwarded to the GTAA for their information, all Mississauga MPs, and the GTA Mayors and Regional Chairs Committee.
For more information, contact: Larry Petovello, Airport Liaison, City of Mississauga, (905) 896-5013; Gaynor McAlister, Public Affairs Officer, City Of Mississauga, (905) 896-5933
PUBLICATION: Miami New Times
DATE: September 11, 1997
SECTION: News
BYLINE: Kirk Semple
DATELINE: Miami, Florida
ACTIVISTS, INDIVIDUALS, AND GROUPS MENTIONED: Patrick McCoy, pilot and noise activist
The Miami New Times reports that Maimi, Florida resident Patrick McCoy has been leading a fight against the jet noise from the Miami International Airport. McCoy wants the airport to instigate a mandatory noise-abatement policy, like other large U.S. cities. Meanwhile, Jeffrey Bunting, environmental planner for the aviation department, is trying to implement new procedures and policies that would mitigate noise rather than pursuing a noise-abatement policy.
The article reports that resident and activist Patrick McCoy also is a pilot for a major commercial airline. McCoy has lived in the residential neighborhood of Morningside, between Biscayne Boulevard and the bay, for five years. His home is just six miles away from the airport, and he has tried to get used to the sound of jets constantly thundering overhead. He says the jet noise was occasional at first, but now is constant, with planes flying overhead every half-minute during peak hours. Some planes are also banking above Morningside, according to McCoy, which creates even more noise. The article says that McCoy suspects there has been a change in flight routes, and Miami's central neighborhoods, most of which are low-income, are experiencing the brunt of the changes. He has organized a letter-writing campaign among angry residents for the past year. "We deserve the right to enjoy a certain quality of life," said McCoy. "This means that a massive bureaucracy like the Dade County Aviation Department must listen to community members like us."
Meanwhile, Jeffrey Bunting fields about 100 calls per month from residents complaining about airport noise. He said he's received complaints from Morningside, Virginia Gardens, Miami Springs, Key Biscayne, Miami Beach, Doral, Coconut Grove, North Miami Beach, and most of Dade County. Bunting said certain neighborhoods are not being singled out for jet noise, and flight paths have not been shifted recently, but he does believe that the airport's departure and arrival procedures are a mess. The article said Bunting showed a posterboard that illustrated the departure patterns of jets over central Dade County. "Looks like a bowl of spaghetti, doesn't it?" he asked. "We're all over the doggone place."
The article points out that the airport doesn't have a mandatory noise-reduction program, but instead relies on voluntary guidelines that govern airplane flight procedures such as the angles of ascent and descent, and arrival and departure routes. The recommendations are vague and allow for wide variation in behavior, the article says. McCoy, for one, is angry that the airport doesn't have a mandatory policy. He said, "There's no reason why the county shouldn't have a compulsory noise-abatement policy. We should be no different from Chicago, Washington, Tampa." McCoy believes the county doesn't want to have mandatory rules because airlines might threaten to move to other, less regulated airports.
Bunting, however, disagrees with McCoy, saying that a mandatory policy would require a time-consuming and expensive approval process. Instead, Bunting is trying to implement new procedures and policies that would achieve noise mitigation. He is overseeing the creation of a "noise office" and the installation of a new radar and sound-monitoring system that will allow airport officials to track flight paths better, the article reports. In addition, Bunting has several ideas that he believes will lessen the noise over the county, and he's set to present his ideas to the Dade County Commission in the next several weeks. One idea is simplifying arrival and departure flight patterns. The current "spaghetti pattern" of flight paths would be replaced by only a few specific routes that would turn over Biscayne Bay, downtown Miami, or the Atlantic Ocean. Bunting also wants airline pilots to be more consistent in their takeoff procedures and to depart at steeper angles. Finally, Bunting is an advocate for more western departures, the article says. Planes must take off into the wind, or towards the east, during windy conditions, but according to Bunting most planes take off toward the east even in calm conditions. Easterly departures place the planes over residential areas of Miami. Bunting insists many of the easterly departures are unnecessary, and he wants to wean the control tower and airlines from them by requiring westward takeoffs during nighttime hours when the wind speed is five knots or less, the article says.
But the article points out, if Bunting's package of recommendations was adopted, it would be mandatory, and thus would be very similar to an official noise-abatement policy. Bunting said he did not know if airlines would object to his proposals, but said there is no intent to attach penalties to the procedures. Bunting said he would rather use gentle persuasion and prodding to bring airlines into line.
The article goes on to say that the county commission recently voted to create a task force to look into the aircraft-noise issues that would include representatives from local neighborhoods, government, and the aviation industry. McCoy, however, said that the vote was three months ago, and nothing has been done since then. He believes officials are purposely delaying so that the airport's fourth runway, which is now under review, won't be subject to new policies, the article says. However, County Commissioner Barbara Carey, who co-sponsored the task-force resolution with Commissioner Bruce Kaplan, said everyone had been on vacation since August, and that the county manager currently is putting together the members of the task force.
PUBLICATION: Chicago Tribune
DATE: September 11, 1997
SECTION: McHenry County; Pg. 6; Zone: MC
BYLINE: Rogers Worthington
DATELINE: Des Plaines, Illinois
ACTIVISTS, INDIVIDUALS, AND GROUPS MENTIONED: U.S. Representative Henry Hyde (R-Ill.); Joseph Karaganis, attorney for the Suburban O'Hare Commission; Jack Saporito, president, Area Residents Concerning O'Hare; Malcolm Holec, Mt. Prospect resident; Rick Lohrstorfer, Mt. Prospect resident and village trustee
The Chicago Tribune reports that a public hearing was held in Des Plaines, Illinois Wednesday on the Chicago Area Planning Study, northeastern Illinois' transportation plan for 2020 recently released by CATS, the transportation authority. The hearing was dominated by calls for more data on the effects of a projected doubling of flights at O'Hare International Airport and for quieter trains, the article says.
The article reports that U.S. Representative Henry Hyde (R-Ill.) said in a letter read by a lawyer at the hearing that the transportation plan was "flawed," and asked that it be rejected. He also called for further public hearings to be held in the O'Hare area. "The plan fails to consider the ability of O'Hare to be expanded to handle . . . a million new flights" a year, wrote Hyde, who is a supporter of a proposed south suburban airport. Hyde also accused CATS of "tipping the balance" against a south suburban airport by recommending that the road system around O'Hare be expanded. Hyde's letter was read by Joseph Karaganis, attorney for the Suburban O'Hare Commission, a group which opposes O'Hare expansion.
Another critic of the plan was Jack Saporito, president of Area Residents Concerning O'Hare, the article says. Saporito said the transportation plan underestimates the likely growth of flights at O'Hare, and does not consider the increased levels of pollution the plan would cause. "It's highly unlikely O'Hare could pass a (federal air quality) conformity test, especially with larger engines, greater fuel consumption and greater ground traffic," he said.
In response to criticisms, Eugene Ryan, CATS associate director, said the plan was required only to analyze air pollution resulting from the greater ground traffic likely to accompany the growth in air traffic around O'Hare if a third airport is not built, the article reports. "We're saying we don't know what's going to happen (with a third airport) and the projects we've chosen to be in the plan will be needed whether it goes one way or another," Ryan said. The article adds that several projects in the plan are targeted at improving road congestion problems around O'Hare and increasing access to the job markets near the airport.
The public hearing also drew comments from two residents from Mt. Prospect, Malcolm Holec and Rick Lohrstorfer, who were concerned that a proposed additional rail track next to Metra's North Central line would increase the noise and vibration experienced by nearby residents. "Noise mitigation steps must be built into any plan," said Lohrstorfer. He went on to suggest sound barriers, privacy screens, reduced whistle blowing at night, and replacement of bad wheel bearings, the article says. However, the new track received support from Leanne Redden, senior transportation planner in Schaumburg. Redden went on to ask that the plan include a proposed transit line from O'Hare to Schaumburg, with stops at Rosemont, Elk Grove Village, and Rolling Meadows.
The article concludes that CATS will hold a series of hearings on the plan throughout the region through Oct. 7.
PUBLICATION: Los Angeles Times
DATE: September 10, 1997
SECTION: Metro; Part B; Page 3; Zones Desk
BYLINE: Darrell Satzman
DATELINE: Los Angeles, California
ACTIVISTS, INDIVIDUALS, AND GROUPS MENTIONED: Joel Wachs, Cindy Miscikowski, Laura Chick, Hal Bernson, Mike Feuer, Los Angeles City Councillors; Tom Henry, planning deputy for Councillor Wachs
The Los Angeles Times reports that a Los Angeles City Councilman has proposed a motion to tell Van Nuys Airport officials to initiate specific noise mitigation measures just approved by the Federal Aviation Administration.
According to the article, the FAA granted permission for a curfew extension and restrictions on the types of additional planes that may be based at the airport. Planes that make more than 74 decibels of noise will be grounded after 10 p.m. Helicopters will now be covered by the curfew. Additional specimens of the noisier jets may not make the airport their base. The FAA had to approve the measures as not being in conflict with the 1990 Airport Noise and Capacity Act.
PUBLICATION: Portland Press Herald
DATE: September 10, 1997
SECTION: Front, Pg. 1A
BYLINE: Andrew Russell
DATELINE: Portland, Maine
ACTIVISTS, INDIVIDUALS, AND GROUPS MENTIONED: Cheryl Leeman, City Councillor and chair of the council's Community Development Committee; Thomas Ainsworth, president, Stroudwater Improvement Association
The Portland Press Herald reports that Business Express, a New Hampshire-based airline, wants to move its headquarters and maintenance operations to Portland, Maine. But city officials in Portland don't want the maintenance facility, saying it would be too noisy, too large, and wouldn't fit in with the master plan for the Portland International Jetport. Officials from the city say their decision is final, but Business Express officials and a Maine state official are trying to get them to re-consider the proposal.
The article reports that Gary Ellmer, president and chief operating officer of Business Express, said the company wants to consolidate its administrative and maintenance functions in one area. Ellmer added that company officials decided to consider relocating to Portland, because it is "a big, important city for us." The company needs a 20,000-square-foot office and 75,000 square feet of hangar space at the jetport for the maintenance facility. The article notes that if the company moved to Portland, it would bring more than 200 jobs to the region and would introduce millions of dollars into Greater Portland's economy.
The article goes on to say that Business Express is one of the largest commuter airlines in the Northeast, with 350 daily departures from 24 cities. The company filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in January 1996, citing more than $20 million in debts, and also defaulted on a $10 million loan backed by the state of New Hampshire. The article notes that the bankruptcy left the city of Portland with an unpaid bill for $50,000 for two months' worth of landing fees at the airport and rent at the jetport terminal. The city will receive only about 25% of that debt, according to Thomas Valleau, Portland's transportation director. Last spring, Business Express emerged from bankruptcy and moved its headquarters from the former Pease Air Force Base in Portsmouth, New Hampshire to Dover. Maintenance of the airline's fleet currently is based in Albany, New York, and at Bangor (Maine) International Airport.
The article reports that city officials are enthusiastic about the idea of locating the company's headquarters in town, either at the jetport or in an office building downtown, but insist they cannot support the maintenance facility. According to Cheryl Leeman, a city councillor who chairs the council's Community Development Committee, officials are opposed to the maintenance facility mainly because engine repairs on the planes at night would create too much noise for surrounding residents. Leeman added that the city restricts nighttime noise at the jetport and has a policy to protect residents of the historic Stroudwater neighborhood, which abuts the jetport. The maintenance facility also doesn't fit with the airport's master plan, which calls for generating more business from passenger service, freight planes, and private planes -- but not maintenance, according to Leeman. She added, "Unlike Boston, Albany or Chicago, we don't have a big jetport. We looked and there's just no site that can accommodate their maintenance needs." Valleau, the city's transportation director, said, "We're not trying to quarrel with [Business Express]. But to concentrate all of this maintenance into Portland is not the right step with us." City officials maintain that their decision on the maintenance facility is final, and have suggested that Business Express consider locating its maintenance in Bangor or another nearby airport. Thomas Ainsworth, president of the Stroudwater Improvement Association, agrees with the city's position. "It's difficult to envision how a large airplane maintenance facility could peacefully co-exist with a residential neighborhood," he said.
Meanwhile, Ellmer of Business Express said he wasn't surprised at the city's reaction, but believes the city's concerns can be resolved. He said, "There's always a fear that maintenance bases require a lot of overnight noise, but these are issues that have been addressed by many communities. I think these issues are solvable." Ellmer added that the company currently is not looking at moving to any other city, and will re-consider its plan to consolidate the maintenance facility and headquarters.
The city's position has drawn the attention of state officials, the article says, who are interceding in an attempt to find a solution that would allow Business Express to locate in Maine. Thomas McBrierty, commissioner of the state Department of Economic and Community Development, said Tuesday he would meet next week with city officials to hear their concerns about the project. He said, "I want to make sure we turn over every rock before we say good-bye to over 200 jobs moving to this state."
PUBLICATION: AAP Newsfeed
DATE: September 9, 1997
SECTION: Nationwide General News; Australian General News
DATELINE: Adelaide, Australia
ACTIVISTS, INDIVIDUALS, AND GROUPS MENTIONED: Dean Brown, Industrial Affairs Minister
AAP Newsfeed reports that the South Australian government will monitor noise levels in nightclubs, hotels, and at concert venues in a project that will seek to improve the health of workers in the entertainment and hospitality industries.
According to the article, Industrial Affairs Minister Dean Brown said the project will identify noise level exposure for workers, and will seek to reduce noise induced hearing loss and raise awareness among workers. Brown said in a statement, "The government wants to make sure that the health and safety of workers in the entertainment industry, who are often subjected to loud noise for extended periods of time, is not at risk. There are a large number of workers who are exposed to potentially damaging noise levels, including bar and waiting staff, sound support staff, security staff, and first aid officers." Brown added that the project will take several months and will involve monitoring sound levels at nightclubs, discos, indoor and outdoor concerts, orchestra rehearsals, and dinner-dance establishments.
PUBLICATION: Airline Industry Information
DATE: September 9, 1997
DATELINE: Amsterdam, Netherlands
Airline Industry Information reports that officials from Amsterdam's Schiphol Airport have announced that they may close one of the airport's four runways during peak times in order to stay within legal noise limits.
The article says that there already is a night ban on wide-bodied, noisy aircraft to take effect October 1, and that some smaller aircraft may also be banned from night flights. These restrictions address nighttime noise levels, according to an airport spokesperson, but not daytime levels. The airport will have to impose stricter regulations to meet the Dutch governments 24-hour noise limits, and officials have been considering different ways of using the runway system, the spokesperson said.
PUBLICATION: Telegram & Gazette (Worcester, MA)
DATE: September 9, 1997
SECTION: Local News; Pg. B3
BYLINE: Bill Fortier
DATELINE: Southbridge, Massachusetts
ACTIVISTS, INDIVIDUALS, AND GROUPS MENTIONED: Constance Rutanen, resident; Roger Duquette, City Councillor
The Telegram & Gazette reports that the Town Council in Southbridge, Massachusetts held its second hearing on a proposed ordinance that would set time limits on some types of noisy activity and institute methods of punishing offenders. Councillor Mark Carron made a motion to send the proposed ordinance back to the General Government Subcommittee for further review and revision. But that motion was defeated by an 8-5 vote. The third and final hearing, at which councillors are expected to vote on the ordinance, will be held September 22.
The article reports that at the hearing, resident Constance Rutanen said the noise control bylaw is needed because it has been "living hell" in her neighborhood and has gone on far too long. She said people in the neighborhood crank up their stereos with no regard for others. "They never worry about disturbing anyone," she said. "They are in charge.... You name it, we have it all. "
Meanwhile, Councillor Carron said at the hearing that he and other councillors still have concerns with parts of the proposed ordinance, and made a motion to refer the ordinance back to the General Government Subcommittee. Councillor John Lachapelle seconded the motion, saying it is arrogant of the city to tell construction workers when they can work. (The proposed ordinance would set time limits for certain types of work.)
Rene Tremblay, chair of the subcommittee, said that the full council should attend a meeting of the subcommittee if one is held. Tremblay said the subcommittee has been talking about the proposed bylaw for months, but many councillors hadn't been involved in the process. He said referring the ordinance back to the subcommittee was okay, but "you all better attend Monday evening at 7 p.m."
The article goes on to say that Councillor Roger Duquette said the issue has been talked about enough and he has no intention of going to another subcommittee meeting in which it is discussed. Duquette added that the council had not heard from any contractors about the proposed ordinance, but that he believes there are many residents concerned about noise. He said, "We have a problem. We have a big problem. We have to address it. We've had seven meetings so far on this bylaw. That's enough. That's enough for me, at least. "
The article notes that along with Carron and Lachapelle, other councillors who voted to send the ordinance back to the subcommittee included Bernard Haggerty, William Ryan, and chair Laurent McDonald.
PUBLICATION: M2 Presswire
DATE: September 8, 1997
DATELINE: Chicago, Illinois
M2 Presswire released a press release from United Airlines that says the airline will have reduced the aircraft noise emissions of its fleet by 25% more than federal standards require by the end of this year. The announcement came today during a meeting of the O'Hare Noise Compatibility Commission.
The press release says that United will achieve its noise emissions reductions by retiring 48 aircraft by the end of 1998, taking delivery of 57 new aircraft by the end of 1998, and installing noise-reducing hush kits on the engines of 99 Boeing aircraft by the end of 1999. The new airplanes purchased by United are Boeing 747s, 757s, 767s, and 777s, and Airbus A320 and A319 aircraft. United Airlines Executive Vice President Stuart Oran said, "We are pleased to be working in cooperation with the member communities of the O'Hare Noise Compatibility Commission on the important issue of aircraft noise emissions. The Commission has demonstrated that by working together, we can reach practical solutions that benefit all of Northeast Illinois." The press release notes that United is the largest air carrier in the world, and has its base in Chicago.
PUBLICATION: Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
DATE: September 8, 1997
SECTION: State, Pg. A-11
BYLINE: Mike Bucsko
DATELINE: Beaverdale, Pennsylvania
The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports that John Bereznak of Beaverdale, Pennsylvania on Saturday shot and killed a young dirt biker who was biking on the mounds of coal from an abandoned strip mine about 200 yards from Bereznak's house. Bereznak had complained about noise from the dirt bikers for several years, and once had thrown a shovel at a dirt biker while ranting about noise. He also was suspected by the town's dirt bikers of installing tar paper seeded with nails around the abandoned mine area. Bereznak later killed himself.
The article reports that the shooting occurred at the old No. 4 Logan Co. Mine, which has been abandoned for about 40 years and is now owned by Cooney Brothers Inc. The company owns thousands of acres of mines in the area. For about five years, the article says, dirt bikers have used the irregular mounds of coal at the mine for dirt bike tracks and jumps.
According to the article, Bereznak was a 70-year-old retired miner. On Saturday shortly after 4 p.m., Bereznak took his .380-caliber semiautomatic pistol from his Jefferson Avenue home to confront the dirt bikers. There were seven teen-agers at the abandoned mine, the article says, six of whom later told police that Bereznak watched the bikers silently for a few minutes before walking towards them. Robert Custer, age 17, was sitting on his dirt bike about to ride up a mound of coal the teens call "KTM" after the make of the first dirt bike that made it to the top, the article reports. Bereznak stopped about eight feet from Custer, pulled out his gun from behind his shirt, and fired at Custer's chest. After the teen fell, Bereznak fired two more shots at the biker. He then returned to his home and shot himself.
The article reports that people in this village of 1,000 residents still were numb yesterday from the violence of the previous day. Custer's family and two teens who witnessed the shooting would not comment, the article says.
According to Paul Bonfanti, police chief in Summerhill, which includes Beaverdale, "I guess he [Bereznak] just flipped." Bonfanti said that Bereznak and a few other residents who lived near the mine had complained occasionally about the noise from the bikes. A few years ago, after receiving several complaints, a police officer cited a dirt biker for disorderly conduct, but the citation was tossed out by a district justice when the residents who had complained refused to testify. Subsequently, the teen's parents sued the township and won. Since then there haven't been any more citations issued, Bonfanti said, and police tend to ignore the dirt bikers.
PUBLICATION: The Toronto Star
DATE: September 8, 1997
SECTION: News; Pg. A4
DATELINE: North Bay, Ontario, Canada
The Toronto Star reports that Federal Express Canada Inc. has been ordered by a judge to stop overnight loading operations at its courier depot in North Bay, Ontario, because the noise is keeping neighbors awake. Residents living near the depot took Federal Express to court for nighttime disturbance. Justice Michael Bolan of the Ontario Court, general division, last week gave Federal Express until November 1 to relocate its operations or stop loading and unloading trucks between 7 p.m. and 7 a.m., the article says.
PUBLICATION: The Weekly of Business Aviation
DATE: September 8, 1997
SECTION: Vol. 65, No. 10; Pg. 102
DATELINE: Europe
The Weekly of Business Aviation reports that the European Environmental Bureau (EEB) released a new policy statement to European Union members, saying that Europe's problem with increasing aircraft noise pollution is partly a result of the absence of a tax on aircraft fuels. The EEB called for noise mitigation measures to be funded by such a tax.
According to the article, the EEB's policy statement, "Memorandum to the Luxembourg Presidency and the EU member states," said that although Europe is experiencing lower noise emissions per aircraft movement, overall noise levels are still rising due to steadily increasing flights. The EEB statement said that the European Commission's recent "green paper" on noise pollution, which predicts a 180% increase in air traffic by 2010, should go beyond proposing technical measures to reduce noise. The EEB said in the statement, "We believe that the 'polluter pays' principle should apply to aviation as well," and called on the European Commission to take a proactive role in discussions currently underway among the 15 member states regarding an aviation fuel tax. So far, the tax is favored only by the Dutch government, the article notes.
The policy statement also calls for strict rules against nighttime flights at Europe's airports, the article says. The statement argues that citizens living near airports need a strong restriction of flights from 11 p.m. to 7 a.m., and higher charges for night flights should be used to support the restriction.
PUBLICATION: The Buffalo News
DATE: September 7, 1997
SECTION: Viewpoints, Pg. 3H
BYLINE: Andy Rooney
DATELINE: U.S.
The Buffalo News printed an editorial in which the columnist concludes after his vacation in the country that everything is too loud in the city. The writer goes on to say that we shun silence, which partly explains our need to have noise everywhere.
The editorial writer goes on to say that maybe we're afraid of silence because we equate it with nothingness and death. He points out that young people are particularly uneasy with silence. They often turn on the radio, for example, when it's quiet. Radio was a great invention, the columnist says, but it's more intrusive than television because it doesn't demand attention. Thus, people have it on without listening. The writer gives other evidence that our society is afraid of silence. He describes calling a business and being put on hold with loud music that he doesn't want to hear. He says the company is afraid that silence on hold will indicate that they aren't there or they don't care that he's waiting. But, the writer says, he doesn't want to think about what their music makes him think of -- instead, he wants to think his own thoughts. The columnist goes on to describe gadgets that produce "white noise," which are supposed to help people who have trouble falling asleep. White noise is sound whose emphasis is the same at all frequencies, the writer says, and thus it might be called "dull noise."
The editorial goes on to distinguish between a "sound" and a "noise." Good sounds are not noise, the writer says. Good sounds, in his opinion, include a distant cricket, the chirping of early-morning birds, a well-played instrument, a trained voice singing, and a well-tuned engine running. By contrast, noise is the neighbor's power mower, a chain saw, jackhammer, or an outboard motorboat on the lake early in the morning. He goes on to say that "silence" is different from "quiet" too. He says the greatest quiet is falling snow late at night in winter. We don't actually hear it, we sense it and it's pervasive, he points out. There is also a pervasive quietness to rain that drowns out noise, although it's louder than snow. The writer says if someone made a tape of beautiful quiet, it might sell to people who dislike noise, which makes it difficult to think. He concludes that quiet is beautiful and comforting, while silence can be scary.
The editorial goes on to discuss horn blowing. The columnist says horn blowing is worse in many foreign cities than it is in New York, but because there are many foreigners driving New York cabs, they bring their horn-blowing habits with them. The writer wonders whether it would be possible to ration horn-blowing. If every car had a counter that allowed 100 horn toots before it deactivated the horn, then the driver would have to submit an explanation for his horn-blowing before getting it back. He says horn reactivation could even be entered on a driver's license, like a speeding conviction.
The writer concludes that some people seem oblivious to sound. They edit it out, and leave their radios and television sets on while reading the newspaper. But the columnist concludes, he finds the absence of sounds comforting. He says in the country this summer, he would awaken every morning to peace and quiet and the "silence was golden."
PUBLICATION: Los Angeles Times
DATE: September 7, 1997
SECTION: Metro; Part B; Page 16; Metro Desk
DATELINE: Los Angeles, California area
The Los Angeles Times printed an editorial which expresses the different results in two similar noise-related disputes at southern California airports. The Federal Aviation Administration allowed Van Nuys Airport to initiate an extended noise curfew and limits on the loudest jets. On the other hand, Burbank decided to stop talking with the Burbank-Glendale-Pasadena Airport Authority, choosing instead to let pending lawsuits decide the noise disputes there: at taxpayers expense.
The editorial says that at Van Nuys Airport, the night curfew will now stretch from 10 p.m. -- instead of 11 -- to 7 a.m. for jets that make more than 74 decibels of noise.
The editorial writer argues that for the curfew to work, it must be enforced strictly with fines for scofflaw pilots. He notes that helicopters and private jets are often the worst offenders at this noisy airport.
The article goes on to say that helicopters may be included in the curfew now, although studies must first determine how to balance the media's need to fly with residents' need for sleep. One proposal would give helicopters a midnight to 6 a.m. curfew.
The article notes that Burbank's dispute also involves a curfew. The city wants a required curfew and limits on noise, which the airport authority will not agree to. Now that talks have ceased, the dispute will be settled in court cases paid for with tax dollars. The article says that both parties are to blame for the impasse, but Burbank assured the outcome would be expensive and unsatisfying for everyone by ending discussions.
PUBLICATION: St. Louis Post-Dispatch
DATE: September 7, 1997
SECTION: News, Pg. 1D
BYLINE: Lorraine Kee
DATELINE: St. Charles, Missouri
ACTIVISTS, INDIVIDUALS, AND GROUPS MENTIONED: State Senator Steve Ehlmann (R-St. Charles); U.S. Representative Jim Talent (R-Chesterfield); Pat McDonnell, vice president, St. Charles Citizens Against Aircraft Noise; Joseph Ortwerth, St. Charles County Executive; Conrad Bowers, Bridgeton mayor; Wayne Hoffman, president, Airspace Foundation
The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports that a rally was held Saturday at the St. Charles (Missouri) City Hall to protest the proposed runway west of Lambert Air Field outside St. Louis. An estimated 500 people attended the two-hour rally organized by St. Charles Citizens Against Aircraft Noise. City, county, and state elected officials also attended and spoke at the rally.
According to the article, St. Charles Citizens Against Aircraft Noise was organized a year ago to oppose the airport's plan for a westward runway, called W-1W. Opponents maintain that the runway would increase the airplane noise over St. Charles, lower property values, and threaten the quality of life. The group believes the airport has not seriously considered other expansion plans, such as flight routes over less populated areas, according to Pat McDonnell, vice president of the group. In addition, opponents point out that the pilots association and traffic controllers have endorsed other proposals.
The group's rally was organized in order to get the commitment of St. Charles area politicians, who were asked to sign a large pledge card that they will "fight increased noise pollution from aircraft over St. Charles County by all legal means." Seven of ten St. Charles city council members were on hand, as were two of seven members of the St. Charles County Council. St. Charles County Executive Joseph Ortwerth and Bridgeton mayor Conrad Powers both signed the pledge card, the article says.
Meanwhile, other participants at the rally carried yellow balloons and signs saying that they had been "sold out" by Civic Progress, the Regional Commerce and Growth Association, and the city of St. Louis. In addition, some of the signs had caricatures of Leonard Griggs, director of Lambert Field, in a Gestapo-type get-up, the article says.
The rally also was accompanied by noisy jets flying overhead, interrupting at least a half-dozen speeches by organizers and politicians. But the noise only inspired the speakers. State Senator Steve Ehlmann (R-St. Charles) said, "We cannot let it get worse." U.S. Representative Jim Talent (R-Chesterfield), the region's Congress member, said, "It's vitally important that you stay involved in this battle. At the end of the day, the truth is going to come out, and we're going to win."
There also was talk of litigation at the rally, the article reports. County Executive Ortwerth said it would be too bad if it comes down to litigation, but that may be the only alternative.
After the rally, airport director Griggs issued a prepared statement that said airport officials "continue to dialogue with St. Charles officials," the article reports. "There are procedures in the proposed W-1W which will turn the aircrafts departing from the new proposed runway south along the Missouri River Bottoms to minimize overflights of St. Charles," the statement read.
PUBLICATION: Telegraph Herald (Dubuque, IA)
DATE: September 7, 1997
SECTION: Front; Pg. a 1
BYLINE: Kathy Bergstrom
DATELINE: Dubuque, Iowa
ACTIVISTS, INDIVIDUALS, AND GROUPS MENTIONED: Linda Green, Donald Smith, residents; Terry Duggan, mayor
The Telegraph Herald reports that noise pollution is an important issue for many Dubuque, Iowa residents. The article explores the ways in which noise affects our health and well-being, and then goes on to describe Dubuque's noise ordinance and problems with its enforcement.
According to the article, experts say that noise pollution causes sleep and hearing loss, distractions, and stress that diminish our quality of life. Noise is everywhere, the article says, coming from stereos, trains, defective mufflers, garbage trucks, the neighbor's barking dog, lawn mowers, unruly children, and the vacuum cleaner.
The article notes that many people may think they're not affected by noise, but at least 20 million Americans are exposed daily to levels of noise that are damaging their hearing and affecting their well-being. Some hearing loss develops in most people between the ages of 40 and 50, but physicians say today they are seeing increasing numbers of teenagers with impaired hearing.
Noise becomes dangerous to hearing between 80 to 85 decibels, the article reports. The article goes on to list the most common sources of dangerous noises, as compiled by American Health magazine:
Firearms: 140 to 170 decibels
Jet engines: 140 decibels
Amplified car stereos: 140 decibels at full volume
Power mowers: 105 decibels
Jackhammers: 100 decibels
Electric razors: 85 decibels
Crowded school buses: 85 decibels.
Many Dubuque residents are disturbed by noise pollution that assaults them at their homes, the article says. Resident Linda Green suffers from traffic noise and loud car stereos in her Rhomberg Avenue home. She said the noise increases on the weekends, and makes it difficult to enjoy sitting on her front porch in the summer. Resident Donald Smith is especially disturbed by loud car stereos with the bass turned up. He said it upsets his whole household.
The article goes on to say that the Dubuque noise ordinance states that any unusually loud or excessive noise which disturbs the peace and the public quiet of the neighborhood is illegal. Residents who experience noise pollution can complain either to the police or the city's health department. One problem with enforcing the ordinance, however, is that police must witness the noise in order to issue a citation. This makes it difficult to issue a citation to a loud car or motorcycle.
The article reports that according to Mayor Terry Duggan, any excess noise deteriorates the quality of life. He said, "Every resident deserves to live peacefully in their own residence. If the ordinance is violated, then they need to be corrected." One noise source that the city's ordinance addresses is outdoor concerts, the mayor said. The city council this year asked organizers of the Livestock event to direct the music away from the riverfront area's residential neighborhoods because of complaints about last summer's Thunderfest, the article says. The mayor added that if outdoor events are disturbing people in residential areas, the noise needs to be put into check.
The article concludes that if residents have complaints about noise, they should know the source and location of the noise, and be able to describe what they see and hear. Then they should call the Dubuque Police Department (319-589-4415) or the Dubuque Health Department (319-589-4181).
PUBLICATION: Telegraph Herald (Dubuque, IA)
DATE: September 7, 1997
SECTION: Front; Pg. a 6
BYLINE: Susan Gwiasda
DATELINE: Dubuque, Iowa
ACTIVISTS, INDIVIDUALS, AND GROUPS MENTIONED: Citizens' Coalition Against Noise
The Telegraph Herald reports that constant exposure to loud noise can cause temporary or permanent hearing loss depending on the volume, duration, and repetition of exposure, according to experts. The article goes on to outline how hearing is damaged from noise pollution.
The article reports that experts call temporary hearing damage due to noise exposure "temporary threshold shift," while noise that causes a permanent hearing loss is a "permanent threshold shift." According to Dr. Thomas Benda, an ear, nose and throat specialist with Dubuque (Iowa) Otolaryngology, if a person experiences enough temporary threshold shifts, permanent hearing damage is inevitable. However, each person can withstand varying numbers of temporary threshold shifts before permanent hearing loss sets in. But people who experience loud noise frequently, such as those who listen to loud music or spend a lot of time snowmobiling or working with power tools without protection are more likely to experience permanent damage. Benda said that some people get permanent damage with only one loud noise. The safest way to avoid risks to your hearing, the article reports, is to avoid or reduce the time you are exposed to noise.
The article goes on to explain that impulse noise, a short, extremely loud noise such as a gunshot, is the most destructive noise for hearing. The noise occurs so quickly, the ear doesn't have time to protect itself, the article says. Hearing loss in children can often be traced to the impulse noises of firecrackers or rifles. Attending a loud rock concert also can cause hearing damage. According to Laurie Allen, educational audiologist with Keystone Area Education Agency, attending a rock concert can age a person's ears by more than two years. Teenagers and young adults are especially at risk for permanently damaging their hearing because of their loud recreational activities, the article notes. Allen said she has seen damage in kids as young as sixth grade.
The article says that when hearing loss occurs, speech becomes hard to understand. When hearing loss is due to excessive noise, the ability to hear high pitches typically is reduced. High pitches in human speech are usually consonants, and they help a person to distinguish words. Allen said, "You need to be able to hear the consonants clearly in order to understand speech clearly. If you can't hear consonants you can hear people talk but it sounds like they are mumbling." Allen compared hearing loss to listening to a radio station that isn't completely tuned in. You can hear bits and pieces of news or music, but the sound is not crisp and clear. Allen said to someone with hearing loss, the phrase "I am going to school" sounds like "I am going to the pool" or even "I am going to get a tool."
The article also says that noise could be affecting your well-being if you have some of the following warning signs:
If you feel stressed, or if your heart beats more rapidly, at the onset of loud noise.
If you have to raise your voice to be heard.
If things sound muffled, as if you're in a barrel.
If sounds are distorted, as if they're coming through a poor-quality speaker.
If you hear ringing in your ears a long time after you've been exposed to a loud noise.
If you feel an overwhelming sense of anger toward the person causing the noise.
If you fantasize about violent reactions to the noise.
If you find yourself feeling less friendly, less charitable, or less communicative after being exposed to loud noise.
If you get upset just thinking about loud noises and their origins.
The article lists the following sources for its information: American Health magazine, January-February 1992; Citizens' Coalition Against Noise; FDA Consumer, 1992
PUBLICATION: Telegraph Herald (Dubuque, IA)
DATE: September 7, 1997
SECTION: Front; Pg. a 6
BYLINE: Brad McDermott
DATELINE: Dubuque, Iowa
The Telegraph Herald reports that the noise ordinance in Dubuque, Iowa prohibits many excessive noises. The article goes on to describe the specifics of the city ordinance.
According to the article, the city ordinance states: "No person shall cause or permit any loud and excessive noise that results in annoyance or discomfort to a reasonable person of normal sensitivities." The ordinance then lists three pages of noises that are considered annoying and therefore are prohibited, the article says. The noises include, but are not limited to, the following:
Sounding an automobile horn for any reason other than as a warning device, and sounding the horn for "an unnecessary and unreasonable period of time."
Selling anything "by outcry" in a residential area.
Keeping animals that "by any sound or cry, shall cause annoyance or discomfort to a reasonable person of normal sensibilities."
Creating "any loud and excessive noise on any street adjacent to any school, institution of learning, church or court while same is in use, or adjacent to any hospital, which unreasonably interferes with the workings of such institution, or which disturbs or unduly annoys patients in the hospital."
Doing construction work outside of the permitted hours: 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., Monday through Friday, and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.
Discharging exhaust from any engine without a muffler.
Causing or continuing "any loud, unnecessary, or unusual noise in any park or other public place or which disturbs the peace or quiet of any neighborhood ..."
Operating a lawn mower or other maintenance equipment outside permitted hours: 8 a.m. and sunset, Monday through Friday, and 9 a.m. and sunset on weekends.
Sounding a bell or chime for longer than five minutes in a one-hour span.
The article goes on to say that some noises are exempt from the ordinance, such as snow blowers, noises that "protect the health and welfare of citizens," and noises required by law. In addition, the city and its contractors and subcontractors must obey the ordinance, the article concludes.
PUBLICATION: Telegraph Herald (Dubuque, IA)
DATE: September 7, 1997
SECTION: Front; Pg. a 6
BYLINE: Telegraph Herald Staff
DATELINE: Dubuque, Iowa
ACTIVISTS, INDIVIDUALS, AND GROUPS MENTIONED: Noise Pollution Clearinghouse
The Telegraph Herald reports that cities across the country have recently passed noise ordinances targeting everything from car stereos, motorcycles, noisy night clubs, outdoor concerts, leafblowers, and ice cream trucks. The article goes on to provide a list of cities that recently have passed ordinances.
The article lists some samples of city noise ordinances passed within the last year, as gleaned from the Internet web site of the Noise Pollution Clearinghouse:
West Des Moines, Iowa -- In March, limited noise levels in residential areas to between 55 and 65 decibels (depending upon time of day). Violators will be fined $100.
Palo Hills, Illinois -- In May, amended its noise ordinance to include decibel thresholds. In addition, a decibel meter will now be used by police to enforce the regulations, which call for a maximum level of 72 decibels in a meter-reading 50 feet from the source.
Evanston, Illinois -- In August 1996, banned operation of gas-powered leaf blowers in summer months (May 15-Sept. 15). The decibel level of the leaf blowers can reach as high as 100.
Buffalo, New York -- In June, approved a new system for ticketing noise violators that eliminates officers having to make an arrest. Police can now write summonses for a variety of noise ordinance violations.
Boise, Idaho -- In March, restricted loud amplification devices that could be heard 100 feet from a house or 50 feet from a vehicle. Violations result in a $100 fine.
Ada County, Idaho -- In June, banned "loud or offensive" noises audible 100 feet from the source between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m.
Los Angeles, California -- In June, banned use of gas-powered leaf blowers within 500 feet of a residence.
Lee's Summit, Missouri -- In May, amended its noise ordinance and gave police the power to generate complaints through use of decibel meters. Loud car radios and loud mufflers are prohibited at all times. Violators face up to 90 days in jail and/or a $500 fine.
Greensboro, North Carolina -- In May, made it easier for residents to register a complaint by permitting them to phone with their name and address rather than having to show up at the magistrate's office.
Cromwell, Connecticut -- In May, banned all noise in excess of 45 decibels. The police department will be assigned decibel meters.
Elizabeth City, Virginia -- In June, enacted an ordinance against loud car stereos that makes it illegal to play any "device for reproducing sound" loud enough to be heard from more than 75 feet.
Vancouver, Canada -- In May, cracked down on everything from motorcycles to weed-eaters and put a halt to major road construction in an effort to reduce noise levels. The city also will provide more funding to increase use of buses, trains and bicycles in an effort to make life in the city quieter.
PUBLICATION: New Straits Times (Malaysia)
DATE: September 13, 1997
SECTION: National; Pg. 8
DATELINE: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
The New Straits Times reports that three sets of new noise regulations and a set of guidelines have been proposed by the Malaysian government to control the country's worsening noise pollution. The regulations and guidelines address a wide range of noises and vibrations, and currently are being reviewed by the government's DOE.
The article reports that noise pollution is a serious problem in Malaysia. According to Datuk Law Hieng Ding, the Science, Technology, and Environment Minister, a high percentage of urban dwellers are exposed to noise over 65 decibels due to an increase in the number of roads and construction activities. An annual DOE environmental quality report in 1996 also found that most sources of noise pollution in the country were from traffic and construction activities. The article adds that officials had fined 2,149 motorcyclists for violating the noise limits under the existing Environmental Quality (Motor Vehicle Noise) Regulations of 1987.
According to the article, the three sets of proposed regulations set maximum noise and vibration limits for traffic, railway, construction activities, and equipment in order to avoid impacts on people as well as to avoid potential damage to buildings. The three sets of proposed Environmental Quality Regulations are: Environmental Noise Limits and Control, which set maximum permissible noise emission level from road traffic, railway, and construction activities; Noise Emission Limits, which set maximum noise levels for equipment, products, and noise generating activities; and Vibration Limits, which address potential structural damage to buildings. In addition, a set of Guidelines for Considering Noise and Vibration in Land Use Planning and Control have been proposed, the article says.
The regulations and guidelines were drafted by a technical steering committee of representatives from several government agencies, the article reports. The agencies include the Health Ministry; the departments of Local Government, Occupational Safety and Health, Public Works, Town and Country Planning, and Environment; Kuala Lumpur City Hall; and the Malaysian Highway Authority. The regulations and guidelines were based on a study conducted by Universiti Teknologi Malaysia's Institute of Noise and Vibration, the article notes.
PUBLICATION: The Tampa Tribune
DATE: September 13, 1997
SECTION: Home & Garden, Pg. 5
BYLINE: James Dulley
DATELINE: Tampa, Florida
The Tampa Tribune printed a question-and-answer column in which the writer answers a question about what noise-reduction features are available on new dishwashers. The columnist says the noise levels have been reduced to a whisper in the best models. He also tells readers how to get a buyer's guide of the quietest dishwashers.
According to the article, heavy insulation around the best new dishwashers, including heavy felt-asphalt pads bonded to the tank, blocks noise and vibration. Dishwashers that have automatic-closing vents also reduce noise. The columnist explains that many of the quietest and most-efficient models use two small motors and pumps instead of one large reversing motor. One of the pumps is used for the wash spray, and the other quieter one is used for draining. One new model by Aquatec is just being introduced into the U.S., and uses a polypropylene foam tank that muffles the noise and keeps the water warm for efficiency. In addition, Richlund offers a quiet 18-inch mini-dishwasher which can fit on a kitchen counter, the columnist says.
The article goes on to say that a new dishwasher can be a good financial investment because while old dishwashers use about 12 gallons of hot water per load, the quietest new ones use as little as 4 gallons, which is a savings that can pay back its cost over its life. Since each pump in a two-pump dishwasher is smaller, a smaller water reservoir is needed and less hot water is used. There is also less chance of residual tiny food specks with the two-pump system. Whether you buy a two-pump or single-pump system, the writer advises, be sure to choose a model with triple self-cleaning filtration, which highly filters the wash water. New models have up to eight wash cycles and three temperature settings, the article notes.
One new efficiency feature is an automatic cycle sensor (CleanSensor or Intellisense), in which the dishwasher senses the amount of residue on the dishes and adjusts the cycle time and water temperature accordingly.
To get Update Bulletin No. 703 -- a buyer's guide of the most-efficient and quietest dishwashers, water usage, number of pumps, wash cycles, convenient features, prices and efficiency tips -- send $2 and a business-size self-addressed, stamped envelope to James Dulley, The Tampa Tribune, 6906 Royalgreen Drive, Tampa, FL, or go to the website http://www.dulley.comon.
PUBLICATION: The Orange County Register
DATE: September 10, 1997
SECTION: Editorial; Pg. B06
DATELINE: Irvine, California area
ACTIVISTS, INDIVIDUALS, AND GROUPS MENTIONED: Dave Kirkey, resident and airplane noise CD recorder
The Orange County Register printed an editorial that says resident Dave Kirkey has created a CD recording of airplanes taking off and landing at John Wayne Airport and Los Angeles International as ammunition in the fight against the proposed El Toro International Airport near Irvine, California. The editorial argues that Kirkey's CD is little more than conjecture of what the noise from El Toro actually would sound like.
The editorial says Kirkey's CD is more than an hour in length and is titled "Under the Flight Path." According to a promotional press release, Kirkey said the CD allows "the citizens of Orange County an opportunity to experience, first-hand, the devastating impact of noise from commercial and cargo flights that will disrupt our community 24 hours a day if the El Toro International Airport becomes a reality."
The editorial points out, however, that Kirkey said some of the recording was done in the area of the Newport Back Bay. An equivalent spot in relation to the proposed El Toro Airport would be within the proposed noise buffer zone, the editorial says. The proposed buffer zone consists of 18,000 acres, or 26.5 square miles, in which residents would not live.
In addition, the editorial argues, the recording is based on unverified ideas about what kinds of flights El Toro would host. Officials involved in the master planning process that currently is in its early stages will address issues including the size of aircraft, permissible cargo loads, flight distances, and takeoff and landing directions.
The editorial concludes that the CD recording is simply a conjecture of what the jet noise might be like.
PUBLICATION: Airports
DATE: September 9, 1997
SECTION: Vol. 14, No. 36; Pg. 367
DATELINE: Washington, D.C.
The publication Airports reports printed the following listings from the Federal Aviation Administration notices in the Federal Register:
September 2: Announced approval of the Part 150 noise compatibility program at Laughlin/Bullhead International Airport, Bullhead City, Arizona.
September 2: Announced review of a proposed Part 150 noise compatibility program at Scottsdale, Arizona Airport.
PUBLICATION: The Patriot Ledger (Quincy, MA)
DATE: September 9, 1997
SECTION: News; Pg. 14S
BYLINE: Joshua Balling
DATELINE: Halifax, Massachusetts
ACTIVISTS, INDIVIDUALS, AND GROUPS MENTIONED: Annette MacDonald, Edward Stewart, residents
The Patriot Ledger reports that residents in Halifax, Massachusetts voted at last night's special town meeting to keep a ban on motorcycles on the town's frozen waterways. The ban originally was passed at the May town meeting as part of a new boating bylaw. But William Cafarelli had asked that the bylaw be amended to allow motorcycle use between 10 a.m. and dusk, the article says.
According to the article, Cafarelli said a small group of motorcyclists race on the frozen ponds once or twice a month in the winter. He said, "We have been riding motorcycles on the ice for many years. I've been racing with my son for 15 years. We have always used the lake with great respect, and we draw a pleasant crowd." Resident and finance committee chair Deborah Winiewicz supported Cafarelli's amendment, saying, "It bothers me that just because someone does not take an interest in an activity they try to take it away from somebody else. There is absolutely nothing wrong with motorcycles on the ice."
But other residents who live near the Monponsett Ponds say the motorcycles are loud and disruptive and may be hazardous to ice skaters and fishermen. Resident Annette MacDonald said, "One of the reasons we voted in these boating regulations was to rid ourselves of jet-skis and motorcycles. The noise continues hour after hour after hour. It gets to the point where you have to get in your car and go for a drive to get away from it." Resident Edward Stewart was even more vehement in his opposition. "It's outlandish," he said. "The noise destroys our property values. We do not want our property values obliterated. These motorcycles are terrible."
PUBLICATION: The New York Times
DATE: September 7, 1997
SECTION: Section 13WC; Page 4; Column 4; Westchester Weekly Desk
BYLINE: Elsa Brenner
DATELINE: Valhalla, New York
ACTIVISTS, INDIVIDUALS, AND GROUPS MENTIONED: Richard Kassel, attorney, Natural Resources Defense Council
The New York Times reports that in response to resident complaints about nighttime flights at the Westchester County Airport in Valhalla, New York, the County Transportation Commissioner wrote letters to the offending airlines asking them to cooperate with a voluntary nighttime curfew. But only one airline, Continental Express, agreed to delay its first flight of the day to comply with the curfew.
According to the article, the County Transportation Commissioner Joseph Petrocelli said in July there were 248 takeoffs and landings between midnight and 6:30 a.m., the time when the voluntary curfew is in effect. That number was the highest in 19 months, Petrocelli said. The worst offenders of the curfew are Continental Express, Piedmont Airlines, Comair, and Executive Jet Aviation, according to Petrocelli.
The article also notes that when the airport's new terminal opened in November 1995, Richard Kassel, a lawyer at the Natural Resources Defense Council, a group involved in litigation related to the project, said that a voluntary curfew would be challenged. He said when the new terminal attracted additional business, there likely would be an increased demand for early morning flights.
PUBLICATION: The Northern Echo (England)
DATE: September 12, 1997
SECTION: Pg. 6
BYLINE: Euan McGory
DATELINE: West Cornforth, England
ACTIVISTS, INDIVIDUALS, AND GROUPS MENTIONED: Anne Mumford, chairman of housing committee
The Northern Echo of England reports that a resident of West Cornforth, England, who held noisy, late-night parties has been ordered by a judge to stop the noise.
According to the article, the woman, who recently moved into her home in West Cornforth, was ordered to stop the noise by Judge Scott Phillips at Durham County Court. Neighbors had complained about the noise from the woman's house as well as the threatening and abusive language she used to speak to them.
The article says new powers handed to local authorities under the Housing Act, 1996, were used by Sedgefield Borough Council to bring the court case. Councilor Anne Mumford, chairman of the council's housing committee, said: "We cannot allow individual tenants to disrupt the lives of their neighbors." She said the council would not hesitate to use its new powers, and take action which could lead to eviction, if necessary. The name of the woman involved has not been released.
PUBLICATION: Kennebec Journal (Augusta, Maine)
DATE: September 11, 1997
SECTION: Local; Pg. 20
DATELINE: Portland, Maine
ACTIVISTS, INDIVIDUALS, AND GROUPS MENTIONED: Cheryl Leeman, city councilor and chairperson of the Community Development Committee
The Kennebec Journal of Augusta, Maine, reports that negotiations between Portland, Maine, and New Hampshire-based Business Express, who would like to move its headquarters and maintenance operations to Maine, have reached a standstill. State officials are hoping to help the two parties come to an agreement. Portland's main objection to the move is noise pollution from the maintenance operations.
According to the Kennebec Journal, Business Express would bring more than 200 good jobs to the region, but Portland city officials say the maintenance operations are too noisy, too large and don't fit in with their plans for the Portland International Jetport. Thomas McBrierty, commissioner of the state Department of Economic and Community Development, said Tuesday he plans to meet next week with city officials. "I don't know if it's appropriate to say I'm serving as a mediator," McBrierty said. "But I want to make sure we turn over every rock before we say goodbye to over 200 jobs moving to this state." The airline's recent history, however, has been troubled with a Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing in January 1996. Business Express also defaulted on a $ 10 million loan backed by the state of New Hampshire.
The article says Business Express wants to consolidate its administrative and maintenance functions in one area, according to Gary Ellmer, president and chief operating officer. Business Express is one of the largest commuter airlines in the Northeast. The company has 350 daily departures from 24 cities. Portland is one of the airline's hubs, with 24 flights daily. Last spring, the airline shifted its headquarters from the former Pease Air Force Base in Portsmouth, NH, to Dover. Maintenance on the airline's fleet of 39 Saab turboprop planes is based in Albany, NY, and the Bangor International Airport. Ellmer said the company is "very happy" with the way it is currently operating. But he said the airline decided to hold preliminary discussions with Portland because Portland is "a big, important city for us." He said the company is looking for a 20,000-square-foot office to house its headquarters and 75,000 square feet of hangar space at the Jetport to house the maintenance facility. Work currently done in Albany and Bangor would move to Portland.
The article says Portland officials object to the maintenance center because late-night repairs would produce too much noise. They point out the airport's master plan calls for generating more business from passenger service, freight planes and private planes - but not maintenance. "Unlike Boston, Albany, or Chicago, we don't have a big jetport," said Cheryl Leeman, a city councilor who chairs the council's Community Development Committee. "We looked and there's just no site that can accommodate their maintenance needs." Ellmer said he believes the city's concerns can be solved. "There's always a fear that maintenance bases require a lot of overnight noise, but these are issues that have been addressed by many communities," Ellmer said. "I think these issues are solvable."
PUBLICATION: The Northern Echo (England)
DATE: September 9, 1997
SECTION: Pg. 6
BYLINE: Bessie Robinson
DATELINE: Tow Law, England
ACTIVISTS, INDIVIDUALS, AND GROUPS MENTIONED: Mary Henderson, resident; Ian Hopper, resident
The Northern Echo of England, reports that residents of Tow Law, England are strengthening their fight against noise from a foundry after a local man was arrested and fined for protesting at the Bonds Foundry.
The Northern Echo says neighbors are increasing their campaign against a council they claim has allowed a noisy engineering works to expand too close to their homes. Ian Hopper appeared in court yesterday following an early-morning protest against night working at a foundry opposite his home. Fellow residents of Ironworks Road were sympathetic. Years of being "driven to distraction" by noise and traffic from Bonds Foundry finally caused Ian Hopper to snap, magistrates in Bishop Auckland were told. Now Hopper, 49, must pay the company #424 for a switch he destroyed as he tried to keep a door closed. He admitted criminal damage and an offense under the Public Order Act of provoking fear of violence, for which he was ordered to pay #50 compensation to a Bonds' charge-hand. But magistrates' chairman Robert Trotter imposed no additional penalty, apart from #40 court costs.
According to the article, Hopper's attorney, Clive Booth, said his client and his neighbors have been complaining about noise from the foundry for years. He said: "Residents are driven to distraction. The foundry has been allowed to expand its operations by Wear Valley District Council, even though there has been complaint after complaint." However, Bonds' spokeswoman Barbara Gill, said it was company policy to listen to complaints. "Where we have a complaint about noise we try to meet with residents to resolve things amicably," she said. But according to his attorney, Mr Hopper was not listened to and "reached breaking point because he wasn't able to obtain any remedy through normal channels." Mr Trotter told Hopper: "Whilst the court may have a lot of sympathy with your situation, you are here on criminal matters." After the case, Hopper said he was considering asking the Local Government Ombudsman to investigate. "I have nothing against Bonds but the council should not have let this happen," he said. His next-door neighbor, Mary Henderson, said: "The works are in the wrong place, too close to houses. I blame the council. They should not have let the company expand here."
The article goes on to note the chairman of the council's planning committee, Councilor Alan Townsend, said: "The council is always aware of the possibility of problems from noise, smell or traffic from any old established or existing premises and tries to monitor each situation." Last month, the same local authority was criticized by the Ombudsman for failing to control noise from another Bonds factory less than a mile away on the edge of Tow Law
Previous week: August 31, 1997
Next week: September 14, 1997
Aircraft Noise
Amplified Noise
Effects on Wildlife/Animals
Construction Noise
Firing Ranges
Health Effects
Home Equipment and Appliances
Industrial/Manufacturing
International News
Environmental Justice
Land Use and Noise
Lawsuits
Civil Liberty Issues
Miscellaneous Noise Stories
Noise Ordinances
Noise Organizations Mentioned
Outdoor Events
Noise in Our National Parks/Natural Areas
Regulation
Residential and Community Noise
Snowmobile and ATV Noise
Research and Studies
Technological Solutions to Noise
Transportation Related Noise
Violence and Noise
Watercraft Noise
Workplace Noise
Chronological Index
Geographical Index