Chronological Index for December 1999

1990: Sep
1994: Jul Sep
1996: Jun Jul Sep Oct Nov Dec
1997: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
1998: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov
1999: Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
2000: Jan Feb Mar Apr


December 1, 1999

Bookstore/Restaurant in Providence, Rhode Island Has License Renewed, With the Understanding That It Must Keep the Noise Down. The Providence Journal-Bulletin reports that a combination bookstore and restaurant in Providence, Rhode Island had its license renewed on the condition that it keep the noise down. The owner of the restaurant has fired his manager from the summer, and the new manager has implemented strict closing rules designed to keep the noise down by reducing loitering.

California State Legislators Hold Meeting to Discuss Ways to Curb Noise at Van Nuys Airport; Those Attending Agreed that City and County Officials Have Been Ineffectual. The Daily News of Los Angeles reports that several state legislators organized a meeting -- which included anti-noise activists and airport representatives -- to discuss ways to curb noise at Van Nuys Airport in California. State officials are considering better enforcement of state laws, research into other city's approaches to noise reduction, and tax incentives for quieter jets.

Durham, North Carolina Strip Club Shut Down Pending Nuisance Case; Some Neighbors Say Club Was Not A Problem, While Others Disagree. The News and Observer reports that a strip club in Durham, North Carolina has been closed while the city prepares a nuisance case against it. Many neighbors seem to think that noise and violence in the area is not the fault of the club. Other residents say they are glad the club is closed, saying its easier to sleep.

Editorial States that Santa Fe, New Mexico's New Noise Laws Could Wait; Loud Car Stereos Have Been Turned Down Recently In Good Faith, and House-Partiers May Follow Suit. The Santa Fe New Mexica prints an editorial asserting that Santa Fe, New Mexico's noise laws don't need to be amended just yet. City Council had originally proposed stiff fines for noise offenders, but clubs representing those with loud car stereos have been voluntarily turning their music down after 10 p.m. This has quieted the council, but house partiers need to do the same or risk overkill restrictions.

Laguna Woods, California Residents Say Air-Navigation Easements That Allowed Military Flights Over Their Properties Have Expired, Meaning the Proposed Commercial Airport Will Be Open to Lawsuits. The Los Angeles Times reports that residents of Laguna Woods, California are pointing to easements that allowed military flights over their properties as a strike against the proposed airport at El Toro. If the former marines base becomes a commercial airport, the easements will expire and residents will be free to sue the airport for noise pollution and trespassing.

Letter from Noise Expert Says Municipalities Are Not Alone When Trying to Write Enforceable Noise Ordinances; They Can Call Rutgers University in New Jersey. Governing Magazine prints a letter from a noise expert at Rutgers University in New Jersey who says that Rutgers University has a 35-year-old Noise Technical Assistance Center that help "municipalities draft ordinances that are clear, precise, enforceable and tailored to the specific needs of the jurisdiction," as well as offering training for noise enforcement officers.

Los Angeles Police Commission Rejects Proposal to Shift Some Firearms Practice From One Firing Range to Another. The Los Angeles Times reports that the Los Angeles Police Commission rejected a proposal to move some firearms practice from one firing range to another. Residents at the second facility have complained substantially about the noise, and the Los Angeles Police have recently designated $100,000 for sound-reduction panels there. A council member had proposed that firing range hours at the first facility be reduced gradually, until it was finally closed.

Noise Pollution -- Including Unwanted Muzak -- Is Growing in the U.K.. The Guardian reports that noise pollution seems to be growing in the United Kingdom, in forms including unwanted muzak. Noise complaints have increased by over 25 times from 1971 to 1996. Noise may intensify many health problems. Some politicians want to ban piped-in music in public places where people can't escape the noise, such as in hospitals.

Resident Says Allendale, New Jersey Has Money to Enclose Pistol Range, But Continues to Stall Construction. The Record prints a letter to the editor from an Allendale, New Jersey resident who says that although the town has the money to enclose a pistol range in the area to reduce noise, it continues to stall construction.

Resident Says Cleveland Should Take a Lesson From the French and Make Noise Walls More Attractive. The Plain Dealer reports that a resident of Cleveland, Ohio believes -- after traveling to France and observing their noise walls -- that the Ohio Department of Transportation could make their noise walls more effective and just as attractive.

Residents Question Environmental Impact Report for Cleveland, Ohio's Hopkins International Airport. The Plain Dealer reports that Olmsted Falls, Ohio residents and officials say that an FAA environmental impact report is faulty and needs revision, and say that the noise consulting firm for the airport has a conflict of interest because it already works for the airport. The airport "wants to build a 9,000-foot northeast-southwest runway at the northern end of the airport and lengthen an existing parallel runway." Olmsted Falls residents say they already get enough noise and pollution from jets, and don't want the expansion to make worse.

Rolls Royce Sets Up New Technology Center at University of South Hampton in the U.K.. The Derby Evening Telegraph reports that Rolls Royce will invest 1.6 million pounds in a new technology center at the University of Southampton in the U.K. to reduce noise from aircraft engines.

Round-the-Clock Construction Work to Quake-Proof a Dam in Casitas Springs, California Is Irritating Neighbors With Noise. The Los Angeles Times reports that round-the-clock construction on a dam in Casitas Springs, California is causing noise that is disturbing residents. The project was supposed to include a network of flood-warning sirens along the river to give residents time to evacuate in the case of a dam failure, but the local fire marshall is upset that the network is not fully in place. Work crews have installed several measures that will reduce the danger of a wall of water: "wells that suck destabilizing water from beneath the dam, and a berm the size of an office building to act as a doorstop to prevent the dam's collapse."

San Francisco's Mercury News Fails at Attempt to Force City to Release Names of Noise Complainants. The Associated Press State and Local Wire reports that an attempt by the Mercury News in San Francisco, California to force the city to release names of noise complainants has failed. The court ruled that the city was justified in keeping the names secret because releasing the names could lead to harassment of complainants and could make residents more reluctant to complain in the future. The newspaper claimed that complainants names should be released according to the Public Records Act.

Several Pubs in Bath, U.K. Apply For Live Music License; Letters of Opposition and Support Have Been Received By the Local Council. The Bath Chronicle reports that several pubs in Bath, U.K. have applied for a live music license, amid differing neighbors' opinions.

United States Asks European Union for Another Delay --This Time Indefinite -- of Anti-Hushkit Legislation; EU Says Delay -- If Any -- Will Have a Time Limit. The Tulsa World reports that the United States is demanding another delay -- this time indefinite -- of anti-hushkit legislation that would require American airlines to use aircraft that comply with Stage-3 noise standards without the assistance of hushkits when in Europe. Officials here say the EU's real motivation is increased revenue for European airlines and manufacturers, not the protection of residents from noise pollution. Postponing the legislation until after newer international standards are due may keep pressure on the U.S. to continue cooperation, although the EU has said that any delay will not be indefinite.

December 2, 1999

Dunedin, Florida Homeowner Plans to Build a Wall Against His Neighborhood's Wishes; City Council Objected Too, But He Found a Loophole to Allow Him to Construct a Wall. The St. Petersburg Times reports that a resident in Dunedin, Florida, whose proposal to build an eight foot wall beside his house to block noise, light and trespassers was rejected, has found a loophole that allows him to build a similar wall by moving his front door. The homeowner says that the wall is necessary because the long-vacant property has become a common place for people to watch the sunset and would otherwise have trespassing problems. Neighbors were against the plan because they say it would ruin the beauty of the neighborhood.

Gig Harbor, Washington Residents Say Second Narrows Bridge Project Will Not Include Enough Noise Walls. The News Tribune reports that several Gig Harbor, Washington attended by 75, residents spoke angrily about increased noise at a public meeting over a second Narrows Bridge. Transportation officials say the bridge is necessary to help relieve congestion and improve safety, but residents say the six noise walls planned will not help enough people.

Housing Association in Bellingham, Massachusetts Reach Agreement with Power Company over Noise Levels. Business Wire reports that the Box Pond Association in Bellingham, Massachusetts has settled a dispute with American National Power over a proposed power plant after the company agreed to reduce pollution and noise.

Owensboro, Kentucky Begins Using New Noise Ordinance Against Loud Car Stereos. The Courier-Journal reports that Owensboro, Kentucky police have used the new local noise ordinance against 8 individuals with loud car stereos.

Public Workshop Scheduled in Westchester, New York is Designed to Gather Opinions from Residents Living With Noise from Westchester County Airport. The Daily News reports that a public workshop is being held to hear comments from some of the 700 residents who lives closest to noise from the Westchester County Airport in Westchester, New York.

Residents Near Georgia Tech in Atlanta Complain that Supplemental Student Housing Ruins Their Neighborhoods' Peace and Appearance. The Atlanta Journal and Constitution reports that a series of 35-foot tall duplexes, constructed to house students from Georgia Tech and Georgia State, annoy many residents of Atlanta. Residents complain about parking issues, trash and noise. City officials are working to enforce parking and noise restrictions more stringently, and to change zoning that allows duplexes.

Residents Think Planned Water-Treatment Plant in Yucaipa, California Will Be Too Smelly and Noisy, While Officials Say It Won't. The Press-Enterprise reports that a proposed water-treatement plant in Yucaipa, California has residents worried about noise, odor, wildlife habitat and property values. Officials say that none of those problems will occur.

St. Paul, Minnesota Musician/Pilot Warns that Current Site for Amphitheater Will Be Too Noisy Since It Sits Near an Important Air-Navigation Beacon. The Star Tribune prints a letter to the editor from a pilot/musician who believes the current site selected for the Minnesota Orchestra's amphitheater is too close to a crucial air-navigation landmark to avoid jet noise.

Vancouver, Washington Resident Claims Department of Transportation Falsely Stated A Noise Wall Would Be Erected Behind His House; Instead, a Second Off-Ramp Was Built, Taking Up the Only Available Space For a Wall. The Columbian reports that a Vancouver, Washington resident claims that the Department of Transportation (DOT) falsely told him that his house was a prime candidate for a noise wall. Now they say that the wall couldn't have been erected because it was too close to a wetland, and because a stream -- requiring a break in the wall -- would have rendered it useless anyway. In the meantime, a second off-ramp has been built in its place.

December 3, 1999

After One Noise Warning, Birmingham, U.K. Police Seize Stereo and CDs From 17-Year-Old Noise Offender. The Birmingham Evening Mail reports that after giving a warning to a 17-year-old noise offender back in July, police seized stereo equipment and CDs from the noise-offenders house after continued complaints.

Bus Terminal in Bath, U.K. -- Which Already Has Neighbors Upset About Noise -- Will Expand. The Bath Chronicle reports that a bus terminal in Bath, U.K. will expand its 134-bus facility by 16 spots. Neighbors have been complaining about noise from constantly-idling buses and maintenance since the terminal opened in July. Local officials say noise shouldn't get worse.

Chula Vista, California Mayor Responds to Criticism of Council's Cautious Position on Brown Field Expansion. The San Diego Union-Tribune prints a statement by Chula Vista, California's Mayor in response to criticism of the city council's cautious position on expansion at Brown Field. Chula Vista is attempting to create a job-housing balanced community by adhering to a policy of business-friendly "smart growth," and is cautious about questionable data in the airport's environmental impact statement.

City Council Approves Construction at Hull, U.K. Chemical Plant, Despite Previous Noise Concerns. The Hull Daily Mail reports that the city council of Hull, U.K. has approved the construction of a new chimney at and increased production at a local chemical plant. The council approved the plant's plans after the plant has said noise will not increase. The plant has pinpointed six cooling towers that are responsible for most of the current noise, and promise to keep working towards a reduction in noise levels.

Columnist Praises Manatee County, Florida Commissioners' Ban on Noisy Airboats. The Sarasota Herald-Tribune reports that after a months-long effort to reduce noise from airboats on Manatee County, Florida waterways, county commissioners resorted to an outright ban of the craft on most waterways; the Intracoastal waterway will have certain areas designated for airboat use. The column's author praises the decision, saying that residents and wildlife on the waterways deserve some quiet.

Garden Grove, California Planners Approve Mosque Expansion; Some Say Prayers Are Already Too Loud. The Orange County Register reports that a mosque in Garden Grove, California received preliminary approval to double the size of their current building. Residents say that the noise from 5 daily prayers is already too much to take. Officials say the expansion will help accommodate more people inside, reducing the need for outdoor speakers

Housing Development Proposal that Would Place Residences Near Noisy Granite Firm Was Rejected in Aberdeen, U.K.. The Aberdeen Press and Journal reports that the Aberdeen city council rejected a housing development proposal that would have placed residences near a noisy granite firm in an industrial area.

National Meeting of Airport Officials Served to Share Noise Problems and Solutions. The Copley News Service reports that at the National League of Cities convention in Los Angeles, there was a seminar -- arranged by National Organization to Insure a Sound-Controlled Environment (NOISE) -- designed to help local officials from across the country share problems and ideas they've encountered when trying to reduce airport noise.

Residents in Plymouth, U.K. Want Annual Festival -- Involving Gunfire and Fireworks -- To End Earlier. The Evening Herald reports that residents in Plymouth, U.K. want the cut-off time for the annual Music of the Night spectacular to be moved back to 10:30 p.m. After a meeting between residents, event organizers, and local officials no agreement was reached. As it stands, the event will end by 11:30 p.m.

Rodeo in Sebastian, Florida Receives Reprimand; Rodeo Officials Claim Other Loud Events Are Unfairly Ignored. The Sebastian Sun reports that the Sebastian, Florida police visited a recent rodeo to ask that the music be turned down. Rodeo officials say that other festivals aren't harassed because of noise, but police said amplified bass and volume made the rodeo louder than other festivals. The city is considering reinstituting a policy of issuing permits that designate how long and loud an event can be.

Swansea, Wales City Council Warns Public that Industrial Noise Is No Longer Under Their Jurisdiction. The South Wales Evening Post reports that the government of Wales has transferred the power to enforce industrial noise limits to the Environment Agency, meaning that local councils no longer have the power to enforce noise laws when it comes to industrial noise.

December 4, 1999

Drivers on Exeter, U.K.'s A30 Complain About Noise From Concrete Surface, Joining Residents in Battle for Asphalt Resurfacing. The Western Morning News reports that a motoring organization has officially complained that the A30 in Exeter, U.K. is too noisy. Residents along the road have already been campaigning for a resurfacing of the road.

Greenbelt Festival in Gloucestershire, U.K. Plans to Return Next Year; Locals Want Better Noise Control. The Gloucestershire Echo reports that the Greenbelt Festival plans to return to Gloucestershire, U.K. next year, and officials say noise will be better monitored.

Resident of Stuart, Florida Questions Whether Pilots Knew They Were Being Monitored for Noise During Thanksgiving Weekend Test. The Stuart News/Port St. Lucie News prints a letter to the editor that questions the validity of a noise study at Witham Field near Stuart, Florida.

Subdivision Residents in Western Chicago Are Irritated By Noisy Trucking Operation that Moved In Nearby. The Chicago Daily Herald reports that residents of a western Chicago subdivision are irritated that a trucking operation moved in next door where before there was only a cornfield. County officials hired sound engineers to test noise from the site, and found that the business was not meeting noise limits. The matter is now in court, and the business owners note that they have already spent $30,000 on a gravel lot and fence to move trucks away from residents.

December 5, 1999

Santa Monica, California Resident Says Noise from Van Nuys Airport is Primarily From Aircraft Not Based There. The Los Angeles Times prints a letter to the editor that questions a recent editorial which praised the Fly Friendly program at Van Nuys Airport in Los Angeles, California. The writer asserts that an effective program needs to target aircraft not based at the airport, since 90% of the noise that is over the limits come from those planes.

Lawyer for Canterbury, New Hampshire Residents to Argue Against Expansion of New Hampshire International Speedway in County Court. The Union Leader reports that tomorrow, the lawyer for a group of Canterbury, New Hampshire residents will make his arguments against the expansion of the New Hampshire International Speedway in Loudon by 9,000 seats. Residents believe that environmental assessment has not been comprehensive, and that noise is a continual problem even though major events happen only twice a year. Track officials point to a $31,000 study that showed the expansion would create no increase in noise, but residents believe the study was too narrow in scope.

Neighbors of Suffolk County, New York Gabreski Airport Want a Moratorium on New Airport Construction; Airport Officials Say Air Traffic Is Down and No Significant Expansion is Planned. The New York Times reports that residents around Suffolk County, New York's Gabreski Airport are pushing for a moratorium on new airport construction. Officials at the airport say there is no significant expansion planned at the airport, but pressure from residents who say the noise from the airport is growing.

Several Virginia Beach Residents Write, Supporting Military and Opposing Anti-Noise "Whiners". The Virginian-Pilot prints three letters to the editor on the subject of jet noise from Virginia Beach's Oceana Naval Base. They all support the military jets, and criticize the paper for emphasizing opposition from anti-noise groups.

American Airlines Provides Active Noise Reduction Earphones for All Passengers on Some Flights. The Sacramento Bee reports that as of November, certain American Airlines flights have included active-noise-reduction earphones for all passengers.

Operation of Supersonic Concorde Jet Creates Substantial Noise in New York City. Newsday reports that noise from the supersonic Concorde jet, which uses JFK as its only American airport, has been irritating New Yorkers since 1979 when the European-based aircraft began operating in America. The plane causes significant noise, and some call it a "stretch fighter jet." It is specifically exempted from noise-reduction efforts because its engine design doesn't allow for standard noise-reduction technologies. Congressional representatives believe that the FAA should make the Concorde play by the noise rules that all other airlines have to follow.

December 6, 1999

National Anti-Noise Organization Urges FAA to Study Noise Mitigation for Low-Frequency Aircraft Sound. Aviation Week and Space Technology reports that the National Organization to Insure a Sound-controlled Environment (NOISE) is working with a congressional representative from Minnesota to push the FAA to study low-frequency noise from aircraft.

Vermont's Castleton State College Proposes 5-Point Guidelines to Reduce Noise from Parties. The Associated Press State and Local Wire reports that a Noise Abatement Committee established at Castleton State College in Vermont has proposed a 5-point plan to reduce noise from off-campus parties. Residents and neighborhood organizations like the plan, but say it is too soon to know if it will work.

New Office to Handle Soundproofing at Los Angeles' Van Nuys Airport; Residents Say Soundproofing Doesn't Address the Larger Problem. The Los Angeles Times reports that a new noise-abatement office will open at Van Nuys Airport in Los Angeles, California to coordinate the soundproofing of homes nearby. Residents say the soundproofing is just a quick fix, and does nothing to address the underlying noise problem or to help the rest of the community. A judge is set to rule on whether the airport deserves a variance from noise rules that could allow it to continue operating. The new noise office is partly an attempt to show that judge that the airport is making an attempt to reduce noise.

Mexico Plans to Reduce Noise from Aircraft. The Journal of Commerce reports that Mexico plans to make improvements in its commercial fleet with regards to safety and noise.

Simi Valley, California Plans to Streamline Noise Laws, Quieting Streets By 10 PM, and Increasing Role of Police in Noise Disputes. The Ventura County Star reports that local officials in Simi Valley, California are planning to streamline their noise laws to assure quiet on the streets by 10 p.m. and until 7 a.m. The new laws would increase the role of police, who would give more objective descriptions of the excessiveness of noise than those currently given in court by furious neighbors.

Plans for Proposed Stadium in Foxboro, Massachusetts Includes Access Road for Season-Ticket Traffic Which Some Residents Say Would Bring More Noise Into Their Neighborhood; Town Meeting Vote Overwhelmingly Approves the Stadium but Upcoming Vote Over the Road Is Less Assured. AP Online reports that plans for a proposed $225-million stadium in Foxboro, Massachusetts includes an access road for season-ticket holders. The road would help certain fans avoid highway traffic, but residents worry it would bring increased noise to their neighborhood. At a recent town meeting the stadium was overwhelmingly approved. The access road will be the issue in a later vote, and a two-thirds majority will be required to approve it.

Noise from Future High-Speed Rail Link in Korea Must Stay Under 68 Decibels, Although Sound Walls Will Be Lower Than Expected to Allow a Better View. The Korea Herald reports that the Ministry of Construction and Transportation in Korea agreed to a 68-decibel noise limit for a new high speed rail link. Noise walls will be erected along 14% of the rail line; some walls will be 2.6 meters high, but others will be less than two meters high to allow for a better view.

Company that Proposed a Power Plant For Holopaw, Florida Has Withdrawn Its Application; Company Will Look at More Remote Locations Where Noise Isn't As Much of an Issue. The Orlando Sentinel reports that a power company in Holopaw, Florida has withdrawn its application to build a $100-million, 460-megawatt power plant near residences due to noise concerns.

Proposed Flight Path Change at Connecticut's Bradley International Airport Will Add a Sharper Turn; Residents in Granby, Connecticut Will Receive More Noise While Simsbury Will Be Spared Somewhat. The Hartford Courant reports that residents of Granby, Connecticut are upset over a proposed flight path change at Bradley International Airport that would increase flyover noise in their community. The state Department of Transportation proposed the change because the new flight path would affect only 20-30 homes, instead of the 600-1000 homes currently affected. A public meeting has been called, but anti-noise activists say that "They'll do what they want to do, but people should have a right to know specifically what's being proposed and how it affects them."

December 7, 1999

Waste-to-Energy Incinerator in Dearborn Heights, Michigan Is Shut Down At Night Until It Can Quiet Its Noise. The Detroit News reports that a waste-to-energy incinerator in Dearborn Heights, near Detroit, Michigan will be shut down from 10 p.m. to 7 a.m. until plant operators install a baffle that should reduce the noise. Plant operators say that the noise is different than before this summer when a new furnace was installed, but it is not "shrill" or above noise limits.

Wellington, New Zealand Reverse-Bungy Attraction Called "Sky-Screamer" Has Nearby Businesses Worried About Noise, But Attraction Officials Say Noise Is Negligible. The Evening Post reports that business owners in downtown Wellington, New Zealand are worried that a proposed attraction called the "Sky-Screamer" -- a reverse-bungy ride -- would be noisy, and the city council has yet to grant permission for the attraction.

Chartered Jet Companies At Van Nuys Airport Say Noise Controls Will Limit Their Growth. The Los Angeles Times reports on the booming business of chartered-jet companies at Van Nuys Airport. Residents around airports are opposed to airport growth at the expense of their neighborhood's noise levels. The Los Angeles City Council is considering limitations or an outright ban on noisy Stage-2 aircraft, but a charter company owner details how that would hurt his business.

Rise in Corporate Jet Traffic At Van Nuys Airport in Los Angeles Raises Expenses for Plane Operators and Forces Many General Aviation Propeller Planes to Cheaper Venues. The Los Angeles Times reports that the rise in corporate jet traffic at Van Nuys Airport in Los Angeles, California has caused a rise in rents and insurance for plane operators who use the facility. As a result, many general aviation (non-commercial, non-military aviation) prop-plane operators are leaving the airport in search of cheaper venues. Although the rise in jets based at the airport contributes $1.2 billion and 10,000 jobs to the local economy, the increased noise from the louder jets is driving residences to even more bitterly oppose noise from the airport.

Protesters In the United Kingdom Who Want A Noisy Concrete Highway Resurfaced Say Money Spent On Roadside Plantings Designed To Encourage Wildlife Could Be Better Spent On Resurfacing the Road. The Western Morning News reports that residents in East Devon, U.K. are upset that the government is spending 8 million pounds on roadside plantings designed to encourage wildlife rather than on reducing noise. A spokesperson for the government said that the money will go to roads nationwide, and that the resurfacing question is under consideration.

Exeter, U.K. Woman Charged With Assault After Striking Two Women Who Came To Her Door and Complained About Noise From a Party She Was Hosting. The Western Morning News reports that a woman from Exeter, U.K. was charged with two counts of assault after slapping two women who complained to her about noise from a party she was throwing. The hostess was "given a 12 month conditional discharge."

December 8, 1999

Taco Bell in North Providence, Rhode Island Agrees to Try Closing Earlier for One Month to Address Neighbors' Noise Complaints. The Providence Journal-Bulletin reports that a Taco Bell in North Providence, Rhode Island has agreed to try closing one hour earlier for one month to address noise complaints from neighbors. During the new trial period, suggested by the town council and adopted by the restaurant, the restaurant may or may not dispense with a security guard they previously hired to keep the noise down.

Santa Fe, New Mexico Residents Address Noise Through Letters; One Criticizes Recent Editorial Calling Anti-Noise Residents "Fussbudgets",. The Santa Fe New Mexica prints several letters to the editor, including two related to noise. The first criticizes a recent editorial that characterized noise complainants as "fussbudgets", while the second criticizes owners of barking dogs.

Sarasota County, Florida Appeals Ruling That Allows Bar to Play Live Music Outdoors Until 10 PM; Another Bar Has Lawsuits Pending Against the County Claiming Its Noise Laws Are Unconstitutional. The Sarasota Herald-Tribune reports that Sarasota County, Florida is appealing a ruling that allows a particular bar to play live music outdoors until 10 p.m. County commissioners claim that a special exception would need to be granted, but its not clear whether exceptions are necessary for daytime music. Another bar -- which together with the aforementioned one causes most noise complaints in the county -- is suing the County, saying its local noise laws are unconstitutional.

Narragansett, Rhode Island Introduces 10-Point Plan to Reduce Problems at Rowdy Parties; Many Points Are Out of Town Jurisdiction. The Providence Journal-Bulletin reports that the Narragansett, Rhode Island Town Council approved a 10-point plan designed to reduce problems associated with rowdy parties. The council plans to move towards amending the noise ordinance as one of the steps.

Tavares, Florida Residents Still Upset Over Noise Three Months After Noise Ordinance Was Instituted. The Orlando Sentinel reports that residents in Tavares, Florida are still upset at the noise coming from live music at a restaurant, even after a noise ordinance was implemented three months ago.

Seattle Resident Questions Proposed Changes in Seattle-Tacoma Airport Flight Paths Designed to Spread Noise More Evenly. The Seattle Times prints a letter to the editor relating to noise at the Seattle-Tacoma Airport. The letter acknowledges the fairness of spreading noise more evenly, but questions several aspects of the plan including: a turn that would be taken at lower altitude, and the absence of data regarding another nearby airport.

Several Community Committees in Louisville, Kentucky Reported Their Suggestions For Noise Abatement at Louisville International Airport. The Courier-Journal reports that ten committees composed of airport administrators, customers residents near Kentucky's Louisville International Airport gave suggestions for noise-abatement alternatives at a recent hearing. The suggestions will be studied by a consultant over the next month. At that point, the consultant will present the practicality of the different suggestions. The ultimate goal is to send a final draft to the FAA in the fall.

Illinois Institute of Technology Will Build Noise-Muffling Tube Around Elevated Train Tracks As Part of a the New Campus Center Construction Project. The Chicago Tribune reports that the Illinois Institute of Technology will build a noise-muffling tube around elevated train tracks as part of the construction of a new campus center. The 531-foot tube will be sheathed with concrete and steel, and should reduce the noise -- which can reach 120 decibels in the area -- to 40 or 50.

Foes of Clark County, Washington Amphitheater Hold Rally to Emphasize That "It's Not Over Yet". The Columbian reports that opponents of a proposed 18,000-seat amphitheater in Clark County, Washington will hold a rally this weekend to increase public awareness and support. Stop the Amphitheater Today (STAT) has a lawsuit pending against the builders. Builders and officials say that the amphitheater's concerts are public and so are allowed to exceed the noise limits for private events; opponents say the concerts should be considered private. STAT is seeking earlier ending times, lower noise limits and an official environmental impact statement.

Quantum Hard Drive Manufacturer Introduces Quiet Drive Technology, Substantially Reducing Noise. M2 Presswire reports that Quantum, a computer company, is now shipping the world's quietest hard drive as measured by an independent consultant.

Suffolk, New York Voted to Strengthen Noise Rules By Introducing Decibel Limits. Newsday reports that the Legislature in Suffolk, New York voted to introduce decibel limits in county noise rules to help cut down on noise on county property. Decibel limits are 50 between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m. and 65 during the day. Several exemptions are made. The County Executive has 30 days to sign or veto the bill

December 9, 1999

Commissioner in Jupiter Island, Florida Says Noise Ordinance Doesn't Go Far Enough In Limiting Construction Noise. The Stuart News/Port St. Lucie News reports that at least one commissioner in Jupiter Island, Florida believes a recently passed noise ordinance is not doing enough to reduce construction noise. Although loud construction equipment is forbidden in the winter -- when most residents are in town -- and all work is restricted to between 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m., some are still bothered by hammering from construction.

Homosassa, Florida Resident Says Boat Ramp -- Targeted For Restrictions Because of Noise -- Should Remain Because It Benefits Many More People Than It Hurts. The St. Petersburg Times prints several letters to the editor, one of which pertains to noise. A resident of Homosassa, Florida says that a boat ramp, for which restrictions have been proposed due to noise complaints, benefits far more people than it hurts. He says that the homeowners near the ramp knew it was there and yet chose to live there.

December 10, 1999

US Claims European Union's Ban on Aircraft Noise Law Costs Billions: US Seeks Ban on EU Voting Rights. The London Financial Times reported that the US may ask the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) to revoke the voting rights of European Union States if agreement is not reached next week at the US-EU summit in a dispute over aircraft noise.

Chicago Judge and Neighbors in Dispute Over Condo Noise. The Chicago Sun-Times reported that sound engineers will soon settle a dispute between a Cook County judge and his neighbors over noise from the judge's granite floor.

Noise Forces Power Company to Withdraw Proposal for New Plant, But Two More Companies Looking to Build in Osceola County, Florida. The Orlando Sentinel reported that one of three power companies planning to build plants in Osceola County are sheleved plans due to noise.

Noise Levels in Libraries. The Straits Times printed a response from the National Library Board (NLB) of Singapore to complaints about noise the city's libraries. The article says that telephones, pagers, noisy visitors and talkative readers all contribute to the noise level.

Connecticut Plans to Reroute Bradley International Airport Flights Sets Towns Against Each Other. The Hartford Courant reported that the state Department of Transportation will hold an informational meeting to discuss plans to reroute air traffic at Bradley International Airport. Any concerns townspeople have about noise pollution over their towns will not reverse the decision.

Sound Walls in Salt Lake City, Utah Cause Controversy. The Salt Lake Tribune reported that the Utah Transportation Commission rejected a plea from residents to tear down sound walls between Interstate 215 and Wasatch Boulevard in Salt Lake City even though residents hate them.

European Union Defers Hush Kit Legislation Until 2001. According to AFX European Focus, the European Commissioner for transport, Loyola de Palacio, said that EU passed legislation requiring certain aircraft to be equipped with "husk kits" to make them quieter may be delayed until after an international aircraft noise conference in Sept 2001.

European Union and US Battle Over Aircraft Noise Law. The Journal of Commerce reported that the United States warned the European Union that it may retaliate against a controversial EU law that would limit aircraft noise.

December 11, 1999

Jet Noise in Virginia Prompts Letters to the Editor. The Virginian-Pilot printed the following letters to the editor concerning flights from Oceana Naval Base.

New Jersey Airport More a Safety Hazard Than a Noise Concern. The Bergen County Record reported that noise has become a secondary issue at Teterboro Airport because of a plane crash that killed four people in nearby Hasbrouch Heights.

Life in Downtown Austin Means Attractive Housing But Constant Noise. The Austin American-Statesman reported on people who live in attractive lofts in downtown Austin, and their love hate relationship with living in the middle of a city.

English Rural Life Also Plagued By Unwanted Sound. The Daily Telegraph printed an article from someone who left the urban life for country life to get away from the noise, only to find unwanted sound of a completely different genre.

Noise Concerns Delay Florida Recycling Plant Opening. The Florida Times-Union reported on the delay in opening Angelo's Aggregate Materials, a concrete recycling plant because of dust and noise concerns.

Londoners Cite Constant Apartment Noises Worse Than Other Noise. The Daily Telegraph printed an op ed about daily noises apartment dwellers have to live with. Flushing toilets, shoes on hardwood floors, washing machines and crying babies were all examples of never ending noises that apartment dwellers are subject to.

Overland Park, Kansas City Council To Limit Volume on Car Stereos. The Kansas City Star reported that the Public Safety Committee of the Overland Park City Council directed the city's legal staff to find an ordinance that will limit the noise levels on car stereos in residential areas.

December 12, 1999

Alaska Legislators Hear Jet Noise Complaints. The article report on citizens from a nearby town who asked the legislators to help alleviate the inordinate amount of air traffic and subsequent jet noise over many parts of the city.

Boom Boxes in Suffolk County New York Expected To Abide by Noise Limits. According to the New York Times, the Suffolk County Legislature approved noise limits for boom boxes and other noise sources on county roads or in county-owned beaches and parks. One county official said that the legislation came about because existing loud noises have an adverse affect on the quality of life for Suffolk residents.

Condo Owner Asks for Help With Elevator Noise. The Toronto Star printed a letter from someone asking for advice and help regarding elevator noise in an office building turned condominium.

Florida Golfers Object to Jet Noise. The Stuart News printed a letter to the editor regarding golfers, noise and jet noise. The letter was written by an international captain flying with American Airlines in response to jet noise interfering with golf games.

Las Vegas Road Construction Plans Don't Include Sound Barriers: Residents Angry. The Las Vegas Review-journal reports that residents of the Richfield Village in Las Vegas will soon be subject to increased road noise with the upcoming reconstruction of Interstate 15. Transportation officials are refusing to include sound walls in their plans because environmental regulations weren't in place when the interstate was built in the early 1960s.

December 13, 1999

New Hampshire Gun Club and Neighbors Fueding. An Associated Press article reports that neighbors of a gun club in Hollis, New Hampshire have organized into Citizens to Stop the Noise.

New York Condominium Owners and Farm Stand Co-Exist in Peace. According to an editorial in Newsday, residents of a 248-unit housing development have agreed to co-exist peacefully with a neighboring farm stand.

Ohio Turnpike Commission Refuses to Hear Neighbors' Noise Complaints. According to the Plain Dealer, the Ohio Turnpike Commission is spending $1.3 billion to enhance rest stops and add lanes, but it refuses to listen to residents who want sound barriers to block traffic noise.

Seattle Residents Express Anger Over Exclusion From Flight Plans. The Seattle Times reports that residents of several suburbs have come together to protest what they feel as being railroaded by the Port of Seattle staff regarding modification study of jet flight paths over Lake Washington.

UK Student Stabbed Over Noise Argument. A Press Association Newsfile article reports that an argument over noise led to the violent death of a Plymouth University student.

UK Underground Noise On Trial. The Lawyer reports that the rights of local council to monitor underground rail noise are on trial in High Court.

Virginia Residents Losing Sleep Because of Naval Air Station. Letters to the editor of the Virginian-Pilot call for community leaders to implement an anti-noise plan because of jet overflights at Oceana Naval Air Station near Virginia Beach. The editorial asks community leaders to act immediately because jet over flights have reached a level where the noise adversely affects the quality of the residents' lives.

December 14, 1999

Maine Paper Mill To Cut Hours and Offer Noise Trees As Noise Buffers. The Central Maine Morning Sentinel reports that the International Paper Company submitted plans for noise reduction as it expands one of its log sorting yards.

New Jersey Gun Club's License Challenged by Neighbors: Township To Investigate. The Bergen County Record reports that the West Milford Township Council is in an intense, five-year-old dispute between a gun club and some of its neighbors. According to the article, at issue is whether the council should renew the club's operating permit for another year.

Ohio Turnpike Trustees To Develop Noise Policy. An editorial in the Plain Dealer discusses the obligation of the Ohio Turnpike Trustees to develop a noise policy because of the dramatic increase in traffic over the years and its subsequent impact on homes that have been built during that time.

Seattle City Council Delays Noise Ordinance in 2000. According to the Seattle Times, the Seattle City Council delayed voting on new noise regulations this year because of a possible infringements of First Amendment rights of demonstrators and because it threatened the existence of the city's nightclubs.

U.S. Noise Reduction for Aircraft Take Effect in 2000. The Journal of Commerce reports that beginning January 1,2000, new U.S. noise reduction rules take effect for aircraft. It's the deadline for cargo and passenger aircraft to comply with Stage 3 noise rules for take-offs and landings at U.S. airports, the article says.

December 15, 1999

California Airport Noise Deal Under Suspicion. According to the Los Angeles times, Orange County officials may have permitted John Wayne Airport to have aircraft traffic exceed required levels over a period of six years--all without approval.

California Officials Announce Scaled-Back Plans For Raceway. According to the San Francisco Chronicle, In an attempt to appease Sonoma Valley residents fretting over more NASCAR-size events, the Sears Point Raceway in Sonoma Valley, California voluntarily reduced its proposed grandstand seating to 35,000 people in an effort to appease Sonoma Valley residents who objected to more NASCAR-sized events near their neighborhoods. The original estimate was over 100,000. Race officials also plan to plant a grove of trees and other landscaping technology to hide the raceway.

Florida Riverboat Parties Too Noisy For Residents. The Sun-Sentinel reports that Highland Beach residents lodged complaints against a riverboat that hosts parties while it travels on the Intracoastal Waterway. Residents have asked the Town Commission to intervene and help bring the noise level way down. The town has a noise ordinance.

Maine Paper Mill Expansion Denied Because of Neighbor Health and Welfare. According to the Central Maine Morning Sentinel, the Farmington Planning Board denied the International Paper Co., of Jay a permit the expansion of a wood-sorting operation.

Nation's Capital To Modify New, Smaller Buses Because of Noise. The Washington Post reports that the new, smaller buses the local transit company bought to reduce noise on narrow District streets, are noisier than the large buses they replaced. Screeching brakes are the reason, the report says. As a result, the local transit company, Metro, will spend about $32,000 to change the break linings on 40 buses.

New Jersey Town Council To Vote On Noise From Quarry. The Bergen County Record reports that the Borough Council is scheduled to vote on an ordinance that would curb the hours of operation of a local quarry, lessening its impact on neighboring residents.

Paris Cabarets Too Noisy For Public. The London Times reports that French cabarets have been targeted by anti-noise groups, and will either have to close or install soundproofing. Up to 2,000 of the 3,000 French bars that stage concerts will close, according to their owners.

UK Organizations Battle Noise. According to an article in England's Birmingham Press, regular columnist Sid Langley refers people who are plagued with noise to two organizations committed to noise. The article named the two organizations: Pipedown, PO Box 1722, Salisbury, SP4 7US; The UK Noise Network, PO Box 968, London, SE2 9RL.

December 16, 1999

California Cable Company Gets A Break From Noise Complaints. According to the Los Angeles Times, a local cable company in Orange County, California will not be held accountable for noise and traffic complaints filed against it. The Orange County Planning Commission also granted the company permission to continue using its land in a residential neighborhood for least a few more months.

Connecticut Gun Club and Neighbors At Odds As City Councilman Mediates. According to the County Record, a New Jersey city councilman is trying to mediate a dispute between a local gun club and some of its neighbors.

Florida Neighbors Don't Agree About Playground and Noise. The Sun-Sentinel reports that one Florida playground has received both complaints and positive comments from its neighbors.

Maine County Commissioners Want Public Advisory Committee on Airport Expansion. According to the Bangor Daily News, county commissioners in Knox County, Maine have called for a public advisory committee to the master plan for the Knox County Regional Airport. Of particular interest are noise and air pollution.

Maine Town's Public Hearing on Noise Not Attended. According to the Kennebec Journal, Hallowell city council members were surprised when nobody showed up for a public hearing on a proposed ordinance regarding noise.


Other Indexes

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

Geographical Index

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