Land Use and Noise

Experts Disagree on Noise Levels from Peaker Power Plant in Buffalo Grove, Illinois (Apr. 20, 2000). The Chicago Daily Herald reported that a proposed peaker power plant in Libertyville was the subject of a noise controversy at the 12th public hearing in the town of Buffalo Grove.

Reno Military Watchdog Group Appeals Navy Warfare Sites on Public Land (Apr. 20, 2000). An article by the Associated Press reported that an activist group in Reno plans to appeal a decision by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and Fallon Naval Station to place three electronic warfare sites and 22 mobile truck-mounted sites on public land in central Nevada.

Moving Florida Airport Topic of Debate (Apr. 19, 2000). The Jupiter Courier reported that a real estate broker who lives under the flight path of 760-acre Witham Field airport has proposed moving the airport to a site in western Martin County and use the current site to build a major business complex. His plan is now the subject of an invigorating debate.

Noise Complaints Prompt North Carolinian to Write Letter (Apr. 16, 2000). The Sunday Star-News printed a letter to the editor from one person who says noise complaints should not be called in to the police, adding that downtown noise is part of downtown life. The letter is printed in its entirety.

Sacramento Airport Construction Delay Because of Noise and Safety Issues (Apr. 16, 2000). The Sacramento Bee reported that the increase of noise complaints and the crash of a cargo jet have resulted in an 18-month construction delay at Mather Airport. The article said county officials the opportunity to study the future of the up and coming air-freight hub.

New Noise Walls Planned But Who Picks Up the Tab? (Apr. 15, 2000). According to the Arizona Republic, noise from Interstate 10 already interferes with the quality of life and peace of mind for residents who live nearby, but a construction project for a local loop has added to the din.

Arizona Cities Challenge Zoning Changes and Developers Threaten to Sue (Apr. 15, 2000). The Associated Press printed an article from the Arizona Republic about developers who have threatened to sue several cities around Luke Air Force Base. The developers want zoning changes in order to develop the land within a 1988 noise contour. The cities want to keep the noise contour zoning because of safety hazards and noise, and to do otherwise would leave them vulnerable to potential lawsuits they could not afford.

Has Newington, New Hampshire Golf Course Expansion Contributed to Airport Noise? (Apr. 14, 2000). The Union Leader in Manchester, New Hampshire reports that some Newington, New Hampshire residents are concerned that the expansion of a local golf course has led to an increase in airport noise. When the Pease Golf Course expanded, twenty-six acres of trees were removed, and the residents claim that the lack of trees has increased the noise. A meeting was held recently with the Pease Development Authority (PDA) to allow the residents to air their grievances.

Surrey, British Columbia (Canada) Involved in Zoning Dispute with Wood Mill Following Noise Complaints from Adjacent Residential Neighborhood (Apr. 11, 2000). The Vancouver Sun in British Columbia, Canada reports that Adler Forest Products Ltd. in Surrey has encountered difficulties as a result of noise and dust complaints by residents in a neighborhood adjoining one of its factories. Some people have questioned why the city of Surrey has allowed industrial zoning areas to be placed alongside residential areas. The president of Adler Forest Products is Rod Hoffmeister, the son of Bert Hoffmeister, a well-known British Columbia businessman and leader of local forestry organizations.

Possible Construction of Power Plant in Sidney, Illinois Brings Complaints from Residents (Apr. 10, 2000). The News-Gazette in Sidney, Illinois reports that residents are concerned about a natural gas-fired "peaker" power plant slated to be built northeast of Sidney. They are concerned about noise, air pollution, and aesthetics. State Representative Timothy Johnson lives in the neighborhood most likely to be affected, and he has voiced strong opposition to the plant. He would like the zoning to be amended so that power plants would have to be located in industrial areas rather than rural areas.

Riverside County, California Wrestles With Rooster Ownership Ban Because of Noise Complaints (Apr. 9, 2000). The Press-Enterprise reports that Cindy Scheirer, a resident of Pedley, California, is perpetually annoyed by the noise made by hundreds of roosters owned by her neighbors in this rural community. Scheirer estimates that there are at least eight nearby properties that each have more than fifty roosters.

Residents in Penn Township, Pennsylvania Oppose Construction of Power Plant (Apr. 6, 2000). The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette in Pennsylvania reports that residents in Penn Township, Pennsylvania are going to court to appeal a decision made by the Township's zoning board to grant a permit for Allegheny Energy to build a "peaker" power plant in their town.

South Glastonbury, Connecticut Resident Seeks Permission to Build Home Heliport (Apr. 6, 2000). The Hartford Courant reports that South Glastonbury resident Robert Maltempo would like to build a heliport behind his home. He recently presented his plan to the town's zoning and planning commission, from whom he would need to receive a special exception permit in order to build the heliport.

Village of Long Grove, Illinois Sues Dog Owner Over Noise Ordinance Violations (Mar. 30, 2000). The Chicago Daily Herald reports that dachshund breeder Lucy Huck of Long Grove, Illinois has been continually violating the village's noise ordinance. The village board has decided to file a lawsuit against Huck, who has 25 noisy dogs in her home. This is the second lawsuit filed against Huck in two years.

California Residents Protest Rezoning in Community Because of Noise and Traffic Congestion (Mar. 28, 2000). According to the Los Angeles Times, a new citizen group is protesting the rezoning of land from residential to commercial because of traffic congestion, additional light and noise. The article said an environmental impact on the rezoning sparked controversy in the community.

Alaska Airport Releases Biased Studies on Airport Expansion (Mar. 24, 2000). According to the Anchorage City News, four studies by Anchorage's international airport state that expanding the airport won't have much noise, air and traffic impact. {Editor's Note: One might conclude that a study sponsored by an airport might vastly differ from a study sponsored by advocates for noise abatement.]

Oklahoma City Councilwoman's Fight Against Noise Said to Interfere with Development (Mar. 22, 2000). According to the Daily Oklahoman, an Oklahoma City councilwoman's fight against noise prompted other council members to delay any change in the city's noise ordinance because they are worried that inner-city development may suffer because of it.

NY Home Depot Too Big, Too Noisy, Too Much Traffic for Neighbors (Mar. 21, 2000). According to an article from Newsday, the new 24-hour Home Depot bordering Forest Hills and Glendale attracts so much vehicular traffic that its neighbors can no longer open their windows or get a good night's sleep.

Springfield, Oregon Residents Question Wal-Mart Site Location, Noise and Traffic Implications (Mar. 20, 2000). The Register Guard reports that residents of neighborhoods surrounding a proposed Wal-Mart site are concerned about the traffic and noise that will be generated by the retailer's operations. Some options have included requiring Wal-Mart to adequately address traffic congestion by possibly building additional interchanges along Highway 126. Springfield has no planned commercial center that would allow for development without adversely impacting residential neighborhoods.

Dayton International Airport (Ohio) Expansion Plans Cause Controversy in Surrounding Communities (Mar. 19, 2000). The Dayton Daily News reports that Dayton International Airport's new expansion plan has caused much controversy in surrounding communities such as Tipp City, Butler Township, Monroe Township, Vandalia, and others. Officials maintain that community growth was planned based on previous plans presented to them by the airport, and now the airport has changed those plans. Many homes will now be affected by the noise from new runways that will be built close by.

Residents of Island Falls, Maine Vote to Recall Prohibited-Uses Portion of Zoning Ordinance (Mar. 16, 2000). The Bangor Daily News reports that Island Falls, Maine voters recently recalled a portion of the town's zoning ordinance in order to protect the National Starch and Chemical Company factory in town. The zoning ordinance from 1974 said that the town would prohibit "all uses that are obnoxious or injurious to health or property by reason of odor, dust, smoke, refuse-matter fumes, noise, vibration or similar conditions."

Albuquerque City Council Against the Sound Wall (Feb. 18, 2000). The Albuquerque Journal reported on a decision by the city's environmental planning commission to approve the construction of a 10-foot-high, 1,900-foot-long sound barrier against traffic noise near San Mateo Boulevard, a main thoroughfare.

Pennsylvania Residents Challenge Expansion of Convenience Store (Feb. 18, 2000). The Intelligencer Journal reports that residents in one Lancaster County town want to appeal a zoning board's approval of the expansion of a convenience store in their neighborhood.

Birmingham, England Becomes First City in the United Kingdom to Publish a City Noise Map (Feb. 17, 2000). Press Association (P.R.) Newsfile reports that the city of Birmingham, England today has become the first U.K. city to release a city "noise map," which will plot the sources of disturbing noise within the city.

Nevada Activists Criticize Navy Training Plan (Feb. 5, 2000). According to an article from the Associated Press, a group of Nevada activists who monitor military activity has criticized officials of the Fallon Naval Air Station for planning to place two electronic warfare sites and 22 smaller mobile electronic sites on public land. The article said the Bureau of Land Management is collaborating with the Navy on the plan, which will be used for training.

Flordia Ball Field Too Noisy for Neighbors (Feb. 3, 2000). County planners approved a private citizen's request to play ball on the field he bought. Now the owner finds himself beset with noise and land use violations, putting him ad odds with local officials because night activities disrupt the peace and quiet of his neighbors, and the field is not zoned for night games.

Scaled-Down Housing Development in Stoke-on-Trent, U.K. Receives Approval Despite Concerns that Nearby Shot-Blasting Operation May Prompt Noise Complaints (Jan. 31, 2000). The Sentinel reports that the city council of Stoke-on-Trent, U.K. approved a scaled down housing development near a noisy plant. Representatives of the nearby engineering company say they worry that noise complaints may still jeopardize the future of the plant.

New Mexico Residents Oppose Pumice Plant Because of Noise and Pollution (Jan. 17, 2000). The Santa Fe New Mexican reports that neighbors of the C.R. Minerals pumice plant in Santa Fe will voice their opposition to the state Environment Department at public hearings.

Belgian Express Mail Company Seeks Solution to Ban on Night Flights at Brussels Airport (Jan. 13, 2000). According to an article in AFX European Focus, the CEO of a Belgian express mail company pledged to find a solution to the Belgian government's proposed ban on night flights to Brussels National Airport.

Richfield, Minnesota Wants to Demolish Hundreds of Houses and Apartments and Build More Residences and Office Buildings Elsewhere; Report on Low-Frequency Noise from Minneapolis-St. Paul Airport Runway May Be a Barrier to Plans (Jan. 7, 2000). The Star Tribune reports that a plan to redevelop part of Richfield, Minnesota may face an obstacle in the form of a low-frequency-noise report on Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport's new runway. The 8,000 foot runway will open in 2003. New buildings will be " built with the latest sound-stopping techniques and materials to blunt low-frequency noise."

High Point, North Carolina Officials Delay Approval of Development Plans Near Piedmont Triad International Airport -- the Future Site of a Fedex Hub -- Until Noise Study Provides More Details (Jan. 4, 2000). The News and Record reports that High Point, North Carolina officials are delaying the approval of development plans near Piedmont Triad International Airport, fearing that a planned FedEx hub may cause more noise than expected. Approval will be delayed until an FAA-supervised noise study -- due later this month -- is released.

California Officials Announce Scaled-Back Plans For Raceway (Dec. 15, 1999). 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.

Maine Paper Mill Expansion Denied Because of Neighbor Health and Welfare (Dec. 15, 1999). 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.

Maine Paper Mill To Cut Hours and Offer Noise Trees As Noise Buffers (Dec. 14, 1999). 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 (Dec. 14, 1999). 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.

Seattle City Council Delays Noise Ordinance in 2000 (Dec. 14, 1999). 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.

New York Condominium Owners and Farm Stand Co-Exist in Peace (Dec. 13, 1999). According to an editorial in Newsday, residents of a 248-unit housing development have agreed to co-exist peacefully with a neighboring farm stand.

Noise Forces Power Company to Withdraw Proposal for New Plant, But Two More Companies Looking to Build in Osceola County, Florida (Dec. 10, 1999). The Orlando Sentinel reported that one of three power companies planning to build plants in Osceola County are sheleved plans due to noise.

Subdivision Residents in Western Chicago Are Irritated By Noisy Trucking Operation that Moved In Nearby (Dec. 4, 1999). 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.

Housing Development Proposal that Would Place Residences Near Noisy Granite Firm Was Rejected in Aberdeen, U.K. (Dec. 3, 1999). 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.

Residents Near Georgia Tech in Atlanta Complain that Supplemental Student Housing Ruins Their Neighborhoods' Peace and Appearance (Dec. 2, 1999). 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 Write to Oppose El Toro Airport, and a Dangerous Ploy By City Council to Build Schools Near the Site to Put the Potential Airport At Higher Risk for Noise Lawsuits (Nov. 28, 1999). The Los Angeles Times reports that seven residents wrote to the Los Angeles Times' editorial staff to oppose the proposed El Toro Airport. Among the issues mentioned, there are claims that more 'economic development' from the airport will be hollow, questions as to whether taxpayers should have to approve the airport with a 2/3 majority, and criticism of a dangerous ploy by city council to discourage the airport by approving noise-sensitive schools and residences near the site.

Boat Construction At a Durham, New Hampshire Home Upsets Some Neighbors Who Think It's Too Noisy and Ugly; Unusual Procedures Make Boat Builders Believe They Are Being Singled Out (Nov. 26, 1999). The Union Leader reports that a man who is building a boat on a friend's property has infuriated some residents of Durham, New Hampshire -- including a town council member who happens to live next to the property -- who say the project is a noisy, smelly eyesore. The council is trying to prove that the boat building is not a permissible use, even though boats have been built in the neighborhood for decades. The town zoning administrator ruled twice that the use was permissible, but a rehearing was called: the only time one of his decisions had been questioned in that way.

Hearings Over Airport Noise Rules In Palmerston North, New Zealand Result In New Guidelines for Airport Operation and Development Nearby (Nov. 23, 1999). The Evening Standard reports that after a series of hearings regarding airport noise in Palmerston North, New Zealand, new guidelines have been established for noise abatement. Ground engine-testing rules, land uses, and noise limits were set.

Archdale, North Carolina Resident Campaigned For Business Rezoning of His Property Weeks After He Fought Expansion of an Industrial Operation Near Another Property He Owns (Nov. 20, 1999). The News and Record reports that a resident who fought against the expansion of an adhesive company in an industrial zone near his home several weeks ago also wanted to rezone another of his properties for business. The resident said an industrial zone will usually lower property values, while a property values near a business zone will usually rise. A 400-foot buffer was built to ease noise and pollution from the adhesive company's proposed expansion due to the resident's campaigning, only a few small portions of his property were approved for commercial zoning.

Editorial Praises County for Freezing Development Around Airports Until Noise Study is Completed (Nov. 17, 1999). The Denver Post prints an editorial that praises Arapahoe County, Colorado Commissioners for placing a moratorium on development near airports until a two-year, $400,000 noise study is completed.

Urabandale Bars Near Residences Can No Longer Host Live Bands, Says Recently Enforced Zoning Law (Nov. 16, 1999). The Des Moines Register reports that at least three bars near residences in Urbandale, Iowa have lost their ability to legally host live entertainment after residents complained. Bars in "commercial neighborhood" zoning can't have live entertainment.

Proposed New FedEx Runway at Piedmont Triad International Airport Will Create Noise Corridor Directly Over Recently Approved Development; City Planners Admit They Should Have Never Approved the Development (Nov. 15, 1999). The News and Record reports that High Point, North Carolina planners admit that their 1997 approval of a housing development located north of Piedmont Triad International Airport was a mistake. They knew the airport would expand but did not know that the noise corridor from a soon-to-be-proposed runway would pass directly over the development. The FAA is conducting an environmental study that should be done early next year which should more specifically explore potential noise problems at the development.

York County, South Carolina Official Wants $4000 Noise Study to Determine If Proposed Freeze on Residential Development Near Airport is Necessary (Nov. 13, 1999). The Herald reports that a York County, South Carolina council member wants the council to fund a $4,000 noise study to determine if a ban on future residential development near the Rock Hill airport is necessary. The council member thinks rezoning decisions should not be based on data from a 1994 study, which could be outdated. Residents of Rock Hill were opposed to the idea of industrial zones near their neighborhoods, but were somewhat satisfied when the planning commission agreed to provide green space buffers between residents and any industrial zones.

Cities Near Proposed El Toro Airport in Orange County, California Rezone Land for Schools and Residences In Hopes that Those Properties Will Further Discourage Airport Plans (Nov. 8, 1999). The Los Angeles Times reports that cities near the proposed El Toro Airport in Orange County, California are encouraging residential and school development near the site. Officials hope that by allowing noise-sensitive developments to move near the airport, the airport project will be more likely to be abandoned due to concerns over noise. Some disagree, saying that building schools is "a tacit acknowledgment that the noise won't be that bad."

Plainfield, Indiana's Strategy for Replacing Taxes Lost When Airport Bought Land By Increasing Incentives for Businesses May Be Model for Greensboro, North Carolina, Where Airport Growth Is Similar to Plainfield (Nov. 8, 1999). The News and Record reports that when Plainfield, Indiana began losing property taxes because Indianapolis International Airport was buying land in the area, they began offering incentives to businesses. Greensboro, North Carolina is looking at Plainfield's model, since a proposed FedEx Hub at Greensboro's Piedmont Triad International Airport is similar to Indianapolis' airport growth.

Richfield, Minnesota Home, Located Near Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport, Sells Today After the Reversal of a Decision By the U.S. Department of Housing to Deny the New Buyers' Request for Mortgage Insurance (Sep. 21, 1999). The Star Tribune reports that the sale of a home in Richfield, Minnesota went through today after the reversal of a U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Originally, mortgage insurance was denied to the buyers since the house's proximity to a Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport runway made it likely that the "mortgage would outlast the house." A call from the local congressman, who was contacted by the sellers and by city officials, prompted the reversal of the decision. Some officials are worried about the implications of the original denial on future real estate deals, while others are not and say that the reversal will be the precedent.

Rock City Gardens in Lookout Mountain, Georgia Rezoned As Business Conference District Despite Protests from Residents; Prompts Consideration of Noise Limitations (Sep. 17, 1999). The Chattanooga Times reports that an 18-room estate in Lookout Mountain, Georgia was rezoned as a family/business conference district which permits "business functions, educational retreats and social gatherings" such as weddings. Partly as a result of the rezoning, the Council is considering a noise ordinance. Residents believe the rezoning will increase traffic, noise, and commerce in the area.

Rehoboth, Rhode Island's Zoning Board to Rule on Permit for Golf Pro-Shop and Restaurant in Residential/Agricultural District; Golf Course Has Already Been Approved (Sep. 10, 1999). The Providence Journal-Bulletin reports that Rehoboth, Rhode Island's zoning board of appeals will rule on a permit that would grant Eugene Dumontier the right to put a golf pro shop and restaurant on his 140 acre property. When his golf course was approved, and his shop and restaurant denied, he appealed the decision; a judge has now said that the Board must evaluate traffic, noise, lighting, parking, and safety more thoroughly before such a denial. Dumontier has agreed to put up a structure to reduce noise, and said he will look into relocating the parking lot.

Potential Noise from Bands at a Proposed Venue for Social Events Concerns Residents of Lookout Mountain, Georgia; Concerns May Spark Creation of a Noise Ordinance (Sep. 9, 1999). The Chattanooga Times reports that a request by a company in Lookout Mountain, Georgia to rezone a large residential estate so it may host social events there has residents concerned about noise. The city will consider a noise ordinance at their next meeting that might quell fears that there will be no noise limits imposed on the venue. The owners of the business say they planned all along to set noise limits if their rezoning request is approved.

Residents of Upper Saucon, Pennsylvania Petition Town Supervisors to Stop Ordinances That Would Limit Noise from Firearms and Other Sources (Sep. 8, 1999). The Morning Call reports that 200 residents of Upper Saucon, Pennsylvania have signed a petition protesting two noise ordinances. The ordinances have already been revised once after resident protests; maximum decibel levels for industrial, residential/agricultural/conservation, and commercial zones are now set at 80, 60 and 68 depending on time of day, and 65 and 70 depending on the time of day, respectively. An original two-week limit on sighting-in hunting weapons on one's own property has been removed. Residents still feel they should be responsible for determining when they can use their firearms.

Medical Chopper Recently Acquired By Police In Wauwatosa, Wisconsin May Be Parked Off Grounds (Aug. 17, 1999). The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reports that a new police helicopter may not be based on nearby hospital grounds, where the sheriff had hoped. Residents surrounding Milwaukee Regional Medical Center are concerned about potential noise pollution. To use the airport, a $200,000 hangar would have to be built; the sheriff would prefer to use an existing, unused hangar at the hospital.

Business Owners and Residents in Melville, New York Oppose a New Senior Citizen Housing Development In an Industrial District; Noise, Dust and Traffic Would Irritate Residents and Be Unsafe (Aug. 8, 1999). Newsday reports that residents and businesses in Melville, New York oppose a proposed senior citizen housing development in a busy industrial zone. They say that traffic, noise, and dust from the nearby businesses would irritate seniors as well as put them in danger. Developers claim that trees and earthen berms will protect the development from noise, but critics say that noise will get through and so will dust and sand that regularly clog air conditioners in the area. The developers will need 4 out of 5 council votes, since so many area residents oppose the rezoning. The article reports that residents and businesses in Melville, New York oppose a proposed senior citizen housing development in a busy industrial zone. They say that traffic, noise, and dust from the nearby businesses would irritate seniors as well as put them in danger.

Universal Studios May Be Planning a New Theme Park In Orlando, Florida; Residents, Already Burdened By Firework and Roller-Coaster Noise From Nearby Parks, Remain Wary (Aug. 6, 1999). The Orlando Business Journal reports that Universal Studios may be finalizing development plans for part of a 2,000-acre property in the area, though they say they have submitted no development plans. They asked an Orange County development committee to revise their minutes, which suggested that Universal had submitted some form of development plans. Universal has generated noise complaints in the past, and has attempted to mitigate the noise in question.

Greensboro, North Carolina Creates Growth Plan, Taking Into Consideration the Effects of Noise from a Proposed Federal Express Runway (Aug. 4, 1999). The News & Record reports that a group of residents, business leaders, and local planners have agreed on a development plan for Greensboro, North Carolina, influenced by potential noise from a proposed new airport runway. There will be a moratorium on providing city services such as water and sewer in potential high-noise areas to discourage development.

Residents of Small Communities Near Myrtle Beach, South Carolina Want Better Buffers Between Homes and Businesses (Jul. 30, 1999). The Sun News reports that several small communities near Myrtle Beach, South Carolina are being steadily surrounded by commercial development. Some residents don't mind, but many others are disturbed by light and noise pollution from businesses they say are too close to their homes. Residents have to deal with noise and light from fireworks, parking-lot maintenance, generators, and other disruptive sources.

Family's Dirt-Bike Track in Howard County, Maryland Bothers Neighbors (Jul. 25, 1999). The Baltimore Sun reports that noise from a dirt-bike track in the backyard of one Howard County, Maryland family is bothering neighbors. Zoning officials say motorbike tracks are not allowed in residential districts, but the family claims the decision would "unfairly restrict a family hobby" which includes "no commercial aspects." While in at least one instance the family has dispensed with the noise on a given day when asked, neighbors feel they shouldn't be required to 'call ahead' to use their own backyards.

Some at Seniors Community in South Bend, Indiana Are Bothered by Street Noise, Others Are Not (Jul. 25, 1999). The South Bend Tribune reports that while some senior citizens at the Robertson's Apartments in downtown South Bend, Indiana are disturbed by street noise, others are not. Residents who are bothered cite a loud bar across the street, unruly patrons from the bar, motorcycles loud enough to set off car alarms, and outdoor concerts at a nearby parking garage. The outdoor concerts -- whose organizers have agreed to face the bands away from the apartments -- always end before 11 PM, and the bar owner said he establishment has been fight-free for over one year, though the article didn't address the legality of other noises. Some residents blame city planners for allowing a senior citizen community next to a loud bar, while they commend the easy access they have to bus service and shopping.

Phoenix City Council OKs Noise Barriers For Arroyo Springs Residents (Jul. 7, 1999). The Arizona Republic reports that Arroyo Springs residents will finally get relief from the overwhelming noise from cars and trailer trucks passing by on nearby Loop 101.

Illinois Shooting Range Faces County Opposition Over Staying Open (Jul. 7, 1999). According to the Des Moines Register, an indoor shooting range in rural Polk County is in danger of closing because its neighbors and county officials claim the noise is too much. They want it to move to a new location.

London Says New Rolls-Royce is Quieter Car (Jul. 5, 1999). The Air Transport Intelligence reports that if industry and state funding are available, the Rolls-Royce airplane will be quieter by 10 decibels (dB) by 2010.

Housing Developer in Birmingham, England Reconsiders Plans After Noise and Pollution Impacts Judged to Be Too High (Jun. 25, 1999). The Birmingham Post reports that a Birmingham, England housing developer, who had planned to build ten homes on a village green there for 450,000 pounds, has noted that increased noise from the development would be unfair to current residents. While noisy roads around the area throw the results into question, the development will be reconsidered. The developer said "We are still committed towards the scheme and will work to ensure the best possible layout is achieved for this much-needed project."

Moore Township Residents Sue Couple to Ban Boisterous Birds (Jun. 17, 1999). The Morning Call reports residents of Moore Township are suing a neighboring couple, charging the couple's peacocks are a noise nuisance and requesting the birds be banned. P>According to the Morning Call, neighbors of Warren and Renate Gosdin, 399 Moorestown Drive, will request at a Northampton County Court hearing today that the Gosdins be required to remove the birds. A complaint township solicitor David M. Backenstoe filed in court last week says the Gosdins' peacocks violate the township's nuisance ordinance by emitting "intolerably loud" screeching sounds that affect the "physical and mental well-being of the residents."

San Antonio, TX Cites Concrete Company for Noise (Jun. 16, 1999). The San Antonio Express News reports a Northwest Side concrete company received a citation for violating the city's noise ordinance.

University Park, TX Neighborhood Battles Church over New Play Areas (Jun. 16, 1999). The Dallas Morning News reports residents of a University Park neighborhood are at odds with a local church over the latter's new playground and basketball court.

San Pedro, NM Residents Protest Proposed Gravel Pit (Jun. 15, 1999). The Albuquerque Journal reports residents near a proposed gravel pit in San Pedro, NM fear noise from the pit will destroy their lifestyle.

New Tampa, FL Noise Ordinance Has Residents Asking for More Restrictions, Bar Owners for Less (Jun. 11, 1999). The St. Petersberg Times reports Tampa resident have long requested a stricter noise ordinance, but business-- particularly bar -- owners say they cannot exist under the proposed new limits.

Queanbeyan Council in Australia to Ask Yarrowlumla Shire for More Land After Council Takes Heat For Approving Development Under an Existing Canberra Airport Flight Path (Jun. 4, 1999). The Canberra Times reports that Queanbeyan Council will meet with Yarrowlumla Shire in an attempt to obtain more land for residential development. In 1996, the Council approved a proposal for a 500-unit development under an existing flight path for nearby Canberra Airport. The transport minister criticized the approval then and now as irresponsible, since the current flight path has already been moved several times in response to resident protests. The Minister of Planning is to make a decision on the proposal in about a month.

Congress and Air Tour Industry Criticize NPS Noise Proposal for Grand Canyon (May 31, 1999). Politicians and air tourism officials testified at a recent House subcommittee against a National Park Service Proposal (NPS) banning sections of the Grand Canyon as off limits to commercial tours according to the Weekly of Business Aviation. Both groups challenge the motives and methods of park service officials, claiming extremism has taken over.

Airport Report Goes to Missouri City Council (May 29, 1999). The Kansas City Star reports that the Board of Aeronautical Commissioners unanimously approved a report on the environmental impacts of a proposed expansion of the Lee's Summit Municipal Airport. The report is scheduled to go before the City Council and, if approved, will go on to the Missouri Department of Transportation. Once approved by the department, the project will proceed. If it is rejected, the department will determine that a more in-dept environmental impact is needed.

Proposed "Entertainment Zones" in Seattle Would Relax Strict Noise Rules; Some See a Balance Between Residents and Vibrant Nightlife, Others See Residential Density Being Discouraged (May 22, 1999). Seattle Post-Intelligencer reports that Seattle's loudest late-night businesses may find refuge from the city's tough new noise ordinances -- including $250 fines -- in a new idea: Entertainment Zones. City council is considering designating designating these zones to allow a loud, vibrant nightlife to flourish in some areas while protecting residential tranquility in others. Many businesses love the idea, but at least one citizen group believes the zones would be unfair to current residents and contribute to urban sprawl. The columnists address the issue in a humorous way, following a luckless drunken man through his night.

Orlando, Florida Airport Advisory Group Approves Rule to Notify Prospective Home Buyers of Aircraft Noise If It Has Been Recently Rezoned Residential (May 15, 1999). The Orlando Sentinel Tribune reports that an Orlando, Florida airport advisory board approved a rule that would notify prospective home buyers of aircraft noise if the land was previously not zoned residential. Orlando's two airports are voluntarily adopting the rule to avoid expensive noise abatement measures in the future that have cost airports like Atlanta $400 million. Some buyers will be asked to sign waivers saying they won't sue over noise, while

Animal Feed Plant in Fayetteville, Arkansas Draws Complaints of Noise, Odors, and Pollution from Neighbors; City Already Suing Plant as Public Nuisance (Apr. 28, 1999). The Arkansas Democrat-Gazette reports that a recent noise citation against Bakery Feeds in Fayetteville, Arkansas is the latest in a battle to closed down the plant. When police arrived to monitor noise from the unloading of trucks, much of the commotion had stopped but readings from dehydrating equipment inside the plant still exceeded the local noise ordinance. The city has already sued to close the animal feed plant because it is in the wrong zone, but neighbors want the suit expanded to include nuisance issues. Neighbors have banded together with their own lawsuit, claiming the plant is a private nuisance and demanding that the plant close down and pay property owners for drops in their property values.

New Noise Ordinance in Upper Saucon, Pennsylvania Specifies Decibel Limits for Different Zones and Regulates Firing Ranges (Apr. 28, 1999). The Morning Call reports that a new noise ordinance in Upper Saucon, Pennsylvania tightens existing language, specifying decibel limits for different types of zones; the ordinance comes in response to resident complaints and an ambiguous definition of what constitutes a firing range. In residential and conservation zones, noise may not exceed 64 dB from 7 AM to 9 PM Monday through Saturday, and may not exceed 58 dB at other times. Noise from commercial zones must be kept under 70 decibels from 7 AM to 9 PM Monday through Saturday, and below 65 decibels at other times. Noise from industrial and agricultural zones must be below 74 decibels at all times.

Crownsville,Maryland Residents Debate the Ups and Downs of Rezoning (Apr. 23, 1999). The Capital reports that residents of Crownsville, Maryland have mixed opinions over whether or not residential properties should be upzoned from rural-agriculture and one house per acre, to two houses per acre. While some residents have much to gain, others have much to lose.

Malta, New York Residents say That Town Officials Are Not Doing Their Job When It Comes To Policing Local Speedway (Apr. 21, 1999). The Times Union reports that a citizen group in Malta, New York is accusing town officials of having special interests when it comes to regulating the Albany-Saratoga speedway.

Neighborhood Wants To Quiet the Noise From Private Race Track Belonging To Red Dog, Their Professional Motocross Neighbor (Apr. 19, 1999). The Pasco Times reports that the neighbors of a professional motorcycle racer want him to stop practicing on his private track located on his property. So far they haven't gotten anywhere, so they are taking their complaint to the County Commissioner.

Encroaching Development, Along with Noise and Safety Issues, Could Close Additional Arizona Air Bases (Apr. 17, 1999). The Associated Press reports as development and a growing number of people move to areas around Luke Air Force Base and Arizona's other military airports, the danger may be increasing for both residents and military bases alike.

Noise Expert Calls Plans for Illinois Power Plant 'Fatally Flawed' (Apr. 17, 1999). The Chicago Tribune reports a noise expert testified Friday that an electrical generating plant near Woodstock, Illinois, may create enough noise to be considered a nuisance for neighbors.

Conn. Residents Say NIMBY to Heliport and Noise; Planning Commission Gets Final Say (Apr. 15, 1999). The Hartford Courant reports Salem, Connecticut, residents said Wednesday they fear a heliport proposed for their neighborhood will bring noise and safety concerns.

Ohio Town Protests Airport Expansion, Citing Noise and Decreased Property Values (Apr. 14, 1999). The Cincinnati Enquirer reports neighbors opposed to the expansion of the Warren County Airport in Lebanon, Ohio, presented town officials with a petition Monday asking for several restrictions.

Committee Urges Tests of Noise Controls Before Proceeding with Redevelopment Plan for Missouri, Housing Complex (Apr. 12, 1999). The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports noise is a concern of a committee overseeing expansion of a housing complex in St. Louis, Missouri.

Iowa Town Delays Race Track Until Reliable Noise Data Available (Apr. 12, 1999). The Associated Press reports a proposal to bring stock car racing to Iowa's Waterloo Greyhound Park has been put on hold after zoning commissioners raised concern over noise.

Long Island Towns Place Restrictions on Noisy Helicopters (Apr. 11, 1999). The New York Times reports in recent years the freedom to use helicopters has been reduced on Long Island as more and more towns have passed regulations restricting where they can take off and land. And in some areas where helicopters can still operate on private property, neighbors are becoming more vocal about the noise.

Iowa Stock Car Racing Proposal Tabled for Lack of Noise Data (Apr. 8, 1999). The Associated Press reports a proposal to bring stock car racing to Waterloo Greyhound Park has been put on hold after zoning commissioners raised concern over noise.

Raligh, NC, Adopts Noise Ordinance to Govern Amplified Music (Apr. 7, 1999). The News and Observer reports the Raleigh, North Carolina, City Council approved a new noise ordinance Tuesday that will govern business where amplified music is played.

Town Near New Orleans Airport Vows to Fight New Runway Plan (Apr. 7, 1999). The Times-Picayune reports a proposed new runway at New Orleans International Airport has the support of the Louisiana Governor but the strong opposition of a nearby town that fears increased noise from roaring jets.

Saying, "You Can't Get Away from the Noise Problem," Seekonk, Mass. Zoning Appeals Board Denies Permit for Company (Apr. 5, 1999). The Providence Journal-Bulletin reports the Zoning Board of Appeals in Seekonk, Massachusetts, agreed with residents' noise concerns and denied a permit for a parcel-distribution center in a residential neighborhood.

Raleigh, NC, Revises Noise Ordinance to Regulate Businesses that Feature Music; Many Homeowners Remain Dissatisfied (Mar. 27, 1999). The News and Observer reports Raleigh, North Carolina, leaders said they tried to balance concern for neighbors' peace and quiet with the needs of a lively urban life when they drafted a revised noise ordinance.

Neighbors of Seattle's Nightclubs want Peace (Mar. 26, 1999). The Seattle Times reports as a result of increasing complaints, Seattle and Washington state regulators are considering new noise, alcohol and entertainment regulations that club owners fear could ruin their livelihood.

Air Traffic Controllers Join Others in Opposing Expansion at Missouri's Lambert Field Airport (Mar. 18, 1999). The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports a leader of a St. Charles, Missouri, group fighting the expansion of Lambert Field said more people are joining St. Charles in filing court papers opposing the expansion plan.

Ontario Board Rejects New Residential Development Near Pearson Airport (Mar. 18, 1999). Canada NewsWire Ltd., reports the Greater Toronto Airports Authority (GTAA) celebrated victory with the Ontario Municipal Board's (OMB) decision to reject a residential development proposal in the City of Mississauga, which falls within the GTAA Operating Area.

Airports Add Noise and Safety Issues to Expanding Urban Sprawl in Arizona (Mar. 16, 1999). The Associated Press State & Local Wire reports safety and noise drive the airport encroachment debate in the Phoenix, Arizona, area as crowded airways rival congested freeways.

Some Say Airports and Urban Sprawl on Collision Course in Arizona's Valley (Mar. 15, 1999). The Arizona Republic reports Arizona's population is growing along with air traffic, spurring noise and safety concerns.

Resident Sees FedEx Hub as Detrimental to Quality of Life in Greensboro, NC (Mar. 14, 1999). The News & Record published a letter to the editor from resident Hildegard Kuehn who sees the proposed FedEx cargo hub along with subsequent noise, third airport runway, and other changes as severely detrimental to the quality of life in Greensboro, North Carolina. Ms. Kuehn writes:

Letter: Former Chairman of Florida's Boca Raton Airport Authority Highlights Noise-Reduction Accomplishments of Group (Mar. 12, 1999). The Sun-Sentinel published the following letter from George W. Blank, past chairman of the Boca Raton Airport Authority and Chairman Emeritus, Federation of Boca Raton Homeowner Associations. Mr. Blank writes to advocate for the Airport Authority and inform readers of the work accomplished towards reducing noise during his tenure:

Illinois Residents Question Impartiality of Noise Experts Hired by Power Plant (Mar. 12, 1999). The Chicago Tribune reports concerns over the effects of noise from a proposed electricity-generating power plant near Woodstock, Illinois, dominated the third night of public hearings. Some citizens question the impartiality of noise specialists hired by the power plant.

Illinois Residents' Noise Fears about Power Plant Not Quieted by Noise Experts (Mar. 11, 1999). The Chicago Tribune reports despite noise experts testifying to the contrary, residents of Woodstock, Illinois, are opposed to a proposed power plant because they believe it will bring noise and air pollution and generally lower the quality of life in their region.

Noise Limits Placed on Dairy Herd by Town Planners in the UK (Mar. 5, 1999). Farming News reports a local planning authority in Wales has placed noise restrictions on a herd of cows as a condition of a permit for a new diary building.

Airport Influence Area and Noise Concern Residents Near Arizona's Williams Gateway Airport (Mar. 4, 1999). The Arizona Republic reports a federally funded noise study will be undertaken and a noise map reconfiguration to answer Arizona residents' concerns in wake of growth at Williams Gateway Airport.

Florida Residents Frustrated by Noise; City Council Says it's Powerless to Intervene (Mar. 4, 1999). The Sarasota Herald-Tribune reports Punta Gorda, Florida, residents who say they're disturbed by music from Fishermen's Village, a complex of bars, restaurants and shops, aren't getting any help from their city council.

Neighbors Object to Noise from Dog Kennel in Spring Lake, Florida (Feb. 22, 1999). The Petersburg Times reports the noise from a dog kennel has pitted neighbors against the dogs' owner in Spring Lake, Florida.

Promoters of Minn. Amphitheater Look to Other Venues for Tips on How to be a Good Neighbor (Feb. 21, 1999). The Star Tribune reports in its bid to build an amphitheater, the Minnesota Orchestra has studied similar amphitheaters for ways to be a harmonious neighbor while achieving financial and artistic success. Topics included noise control and community relations.

Durhan, NC, City Council Measures City Noise in Decision to Grant Permit to Recycling Business (Feb. 19, 1999). The News and Observer reports before deciding to issue a special use permit to a recyclables collector, Durham, North Carolina's, Town Council took some measurements of current noise levels in the city.

Opponents of El Toro Airport in Calif. Fear Noise in "Quiet Zones" (Feb. 18, 1999). The Los Angeles Times reports most noise complaints generated by John Wayne Airport in California last year came from areas miles away, in neighborhoods deemed "quiet" by the county. With much more air traffic planned at the proposed airport at El Toro, South Orange County residents fear there will no quiet zones for them.

NH Legislature vs. Local Control in Speedway Noise and Traffic Fray (Feb. 12, 1999). The Associated Press State & Local Wire reports the New Hampshire Legislature's decision to enter the traffic and noise dispute between the town of Canterbury and a major speedway raises questions about municipal control.

Residents Question Noise Reduction Plan at Anchorage Airport in the Face of Continued Growth (Feb. 9, 1999). The Anchorage Daily News reports communities near the Anchorage International Airport say they're pleased that airport officials are addressing noise; nevertheless, some residents are skeptical the proposed measures will help.

Environmentalists Want Snowmobiles Out of U.S. National Parks (Feb. 7, 1999). The New York Times reports a coalition of environmental groups in the United States wants to ban snowmobiles from the 28 National Parks that allow them. Noise, air pollution and safety are environmentalists' chief concerns.

Calif. Residents Threaten to Block New Cal State Stadium, Citing Noise and Traffic (Nov. 24, 1998). The Daily News of Los Angeles reports neighbors are vehemently opposed to a new football stadium at the North Campus of Cal State Northridge. Fearing noise, traffic, and a general deterioration of their neighborhoods, residents are circulating a petition and threatening to take the issue to court.

Noise Won't Fly as Reason for SFO Runways over Salt Bay (Nov. 24, 1998). The San Francisco Chronicle reports San Francisco International Airport officials outlined a plan yesterday to build new runways over the bay. Environmentalists are skeptical.

Ohio Residents Oppose Firing Range; Noise and Loss of Property Value Among Objections (Nov. 24, 1998). The Plain Dealer reports a proposed police shooting range in Brunswick Hills, Ohio, brought our dozens of residents yesterday who voiced their objections to noise and loss of property value.

Noise, Growth, Aviation Marketplace, All Figure into Chicago Airport Debate (Nov. 23, 1998). The Chicago Tribune published an editorial contending a new group f business leaders is recasting the question of Chicago, O'Hare Airport, and growth in the aviation marketplace. Should the focus be on accommodating growth or attracting it?

St.Charles County, Missouri, Joins Cities in Lawsuit to Block Expansion and Noise at Lambert Field Airport (Nov. 23, 1998). The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports St. Charles County, Missouri, has joined the cities of St. Charles and Bridgeton in taking legal action against expansion at Lambert Field Airport. The lawsuit objects to increased noise among other issues.

Editorial: Minn. Politics and Bureaucracy Nix Citizens' Chance in Fighting New Runway at Metropolitan Airport (Nov. 22, 1998). The Star Tribune published an editorial contending a Richfield, Illinois, couple who fought runway noise at the Metropolitan Airport, and lost, learned a bitter civics lesson involving the mixing of politics and bureaucracy.

Environmentalists Protest Commercial Airport in Homestead, Florida; Noise and Pollution in Nearby National Parks at Issue (Nov. 22, 1998). The New York Times reports plans for turning the Florida's Homestead Air Force Base into a commercial airport have hit turbulence from environmental groups concerned about noise and air and water pollution in two national parks.

Illinois Town Considers Racetrack; Farmers Concerned about Noise and Drainage from Track (Nov. 22, 1998). The Pantagraph reports many residents support a new racetrack in Maroa, Illinois, despite some concerns expressed by area farmers about impending noise pollution and drainage from the facility.

Florida Limits Homes Near Highways; Fears Losing Federal Money for Sound Walls (Nov. 21, 1998). The Sun-Sentinel reports a federal policy limiting home construction near highways is threatening to stop a controversial housing project west of Boynton Beach, Florida.

Two Developers Compete to Build Speedways in Asheville, NC; Noise Concerns Delay One Permit (Nov. 21, 1998). The Asheville Citizen-Times reports there are two efforts to build a racetrack in the Asheville, North Carolina, area. In response to one of the plans, Henderson County commissioners have imposed a 90-day moratorium on racetrack building while they work on a noise ordinance.

Blasting Company in Mass. Ordered to Cease and Desist, Ruled 'Noisome Use' (Nov. 20, 1998). The Telegram & Gazette reports a cease and desist ordered has been issued against a quarrying operation in Lancaster, Massachusetts, after the company was found in violation of town bylaws governing noise from blasting.

County Official Says Legal Hand Forced over Noise from Missouri's Lambert Field (Nov. 20, 1998). The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports a St. Charles County Councilman believes a lawsuit could have been avoided over noise at Missouri's Lambert Field if St. Louis officials had been more cooperative.

County Says No Choice Left Except to Sue Over Noise from Missouri's Lambert Field Airport (Nov. 20, 1998). The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports Missouri's St. Charles County Council decided Thursday evening to sue St. Louis over expansion plans at Lambert Field Airport, claiming the city's expansion plan is flawed and will dramatically increase noise levels.

RI Town Goes to Court to Stop Night-Time Noise from Asphalt Plant (Nov. 20, 1998). The Providence Journal-Bulletin reports the noise from late-night paving in Johnston, Rhode Island, has turned into a legal issue.

Georgia Town to Send Officials to Airport Noise Symposium (Nov. 19, 1998). The Atlanta Journal reports concerned about airport noise and expansion, members of the College Park City Council will return to Sand Diego in February for the 1999 Airport Noise Symposium.

Ventura, Calif. Residents Protest Firing Range Noise; Police Officers Say Facility is Necessary (Nov. 19, 1998). The Los Angeles Times reports residents of Ventura, California, want to close nearby firing range because of incessant noise, but county law enforcement agencies say range provides vital service.

Legal Battle Wages On; City of Burbank Latest Winner in Appeals Court over Noise Impact of Expansion at Burbank Airport (Nov. 18, 1998). The Los Angeles Times reports in the Burbank Airport dispute, a state appeals court has ruled the city of Burbank, California, can proceed with one of its court cases against the Airport Authority on the issue of terminal expansion.

RI Town Delays Gun-Club Permit to Conduct More Noise Tests (Nov. 18, 1998). The Providence Journal-Bulletin reports a Rhode Island zoning board delayed voting on a gun club permit so that the town can hire a sound expert to study how noise from the club would affect nearby residents.

City of Burbank Wins Appeal on Burbank Airport Ruling; Legal Battle Continues over Noise and Expansion (Nov. 17, 1998). City News Service reports a California state appellate court reinstated a lawsuit against Burbank Airport Authority by the city of Burbank, an attorney for the city said today.

Study Finds Noise Levels within Law at Conn. Crematory; Residents Continue to Object to Noise (Nov. 17, 1998). The Hartford Courant reports results of a noise study conducted at an Enfield, Connecticut, crematory did not solve a dispute between the funeral home and its neighbors.

Missouri County Allows Expanded Quarrying Operations Despite Residents' Objections to Increased Noise and Decreased Property Values (Nov. 16, 1998). The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports the Warren County, Missouri, Commission overturned a recommendation of the Planning and Zoning Commission Friday and voted to allow a company to expand its quarrying operation. Nearby residents object to the expansion saying it will bring increased noise and decreased property values.

Mayors of City of Burbank Explain Hesitancy to Accept "Good Faith" Efforts and Uncertain Outcomes from FAA and Burbank Airport Authority (Nov. 15, 1998). The Los Angeles Times published the following perspective from Dave Golonski and Stacey Murphy, respectively mayor and vice mayor of the City of Burbank. In their opinions, agreement by the city to support expansion at the Burbank-Glendale-Pasadena Airport in exchange for a willingness to adhere to the results of a FAA noise study is an inequitable exchange, for the results of that study are uncertain and remove all incentive for the Airport Authority to work with the city to maintain quality of life for its residents.

NJ Farm Market and Neighbors Close to Settling Noise Dispute (Nov. 12, 1998). The Asbury Park Press reports a long-running dispute between a farm market in Holmdel, New Jersey, and neighboring residents who object to noise from the business, may be close to resolution.

Noise Ordinance Before Speedway, Say North Carolina County Officials (Nov. 11, 1998). The Asheville Citizen-Times reports officials in Henderson County, Florida, are considering a moratorium on the construction of racetracks until a noise ordinance is in place.

Airport Debate in Chandler, Arizona, Pits Residents who Want Quiet Against Supporters of Economic Development (Nov. 5, 1998). The Arizona Republic reports officials considering accelerating development around the airport in Chandler, Arizona, face opposition from residents who want peace and quiet.

Noise from Crematory Gets Action from Conn. Town Council (Oct. 20, 1998). The Hartford Courant reports neighbors of a crematory in Enfield, Connecticut, were successful Monday night in getting their town council to take action after they voiced complaints about noise from the operation.

Calif. Residents Voice Opinions about Costs and Benefits of Proposed El Toro Airport (Oct. 18, 1998). The Los Angeles Times published letters to editor from residents about the proposed El Toro Airport. Byron Edwards of Orange County is opposed to the new airport:

Cleveland Says Airport Expansion Doesn't Mean Noise Increase; Mayor Announces Plans for Further Expansion while Airport Neighbors Continue to Wait for Home Soundproofing (Oct. 16, 1998). The Plain Dealer reports the expansion of runways at Ohio's Cleveland Hopkins International Airport can happen while keeping any noise increase to a minimum, city officials said yesterday.

NH Couple Prosecuted after Neighbors Complain of Noisy Geese (Oct. 16, 1998). The Associated Press State & Local Wire reports a New Hampshire couple is being prosecuted for noise violations after neighbors complained about noisy animals.

City Planners in Chesapeake, Virginia, Reject Speedway Based on Projected Noise (Oct. 15, 1998). The Virginian-Pilot reports noise was one of the environmental factors commissioners in Chesapeake, Virginia, cited in rejecting a proposed speedway.

Virginia Speedway Gets OK from City Planners Despite Noise Concerns (Oct. 13, 1998). The Virginian-Pilot reports city planners in Chesapeake, Virginia have approved a controversial motorsports speedway, saying noise can be satisfactorily mitigated.

St. Charles Will Join Bridgeton Lawsuit Against Expansion at Missouri's Lambert Field (Oct. 9, 1998). The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports officials in St. Charles, Missouri, are waiting for the full release of a federal report on the expansion of Lambert Field before joining Bridgeton in federal court to challenge that expansion.

LA Commission Approves Noise Restrictions for Universal Studios (Oct. 8, 1998). The Associated Press reports noise restrictions for California's Universal Studios were recently approved by the Los Angeles County Regional Planning Commission.

Calif. Residents Hope for Renewal of Settlement Agreement at John Wayne Airport (Oct. 8, 1998). The Orange County Register reports California's El Toro Airport issue and how it's resolved could have enormous implications for John Wayne Airport and nearby residents.

Richfield, MN, Officials Take Airport Noise Concerns to Washington (Oct. 8, 1998). The Star Tribune reports Richfield, Minnesota, officials brought to Washington, DC, this week their fight against low-frequency airport noise in their suburban neighborhood.

Wisconsin Residents Object to Noise from Neighborhood Swimming Lessons (Oct. 8, 1998). The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reports a special planning commission hearing was held in Mequon, Wisconsin, to address the issue of noise from a residence where swimming lessons are given.

Residents and Local Government Officials Strike Out Against Plans to Build A New Stadium in Downtown Montreal (Oct. 7, 1998). The Montreal Gazette reports that a proposed site for the Expos baseball stadium has got city officials and neighbors in an uproar.

The U.S. Supreme Court Refuses to Hear Appeal Brought By Burbank's Airport Authorities (Oct. 7, 1998). Los Angeles Times reports that the U.S. Supreme Court has refused to hear the Burbank airport's appeal from a 1997 U.S. District Court ruling. That ruling, according to the article, says the Burbank Airport Authority lacked the legal standing to challenge the city's veto of the airport expansion project in federal court under the California's Public Utilities Code.

Town Council Approves Expansion of Indoor Skateboard Facility (Oct. 6, 1998). Providence Journal-Bulletin reports that a skateboard facility will be expanding in spite of neighbors' complaints about noise.

Neighbors Want Manufacturing Site Converted into Quiet Uses in Elgin, Illinois (Oct. 5, 1998). The Chicago Daily Herald reports that neighbors want property that has been utilized by manufacturing to be converted into quiet uses but the city of Elgin, Illinois.

Editorial Points out Problems with Expansion for Cleveland Hopkins

Missouri Town Files Suit to Overturn Expansion at Lambert-St. Louis International Airport (Oct. 2, 1998). The Bond Buyer reports the city of Bridgeton, Missouri, filed suit against the city of St. Louis hours after St. Louis won approval for expansion of the Lambert-St. Louis International Airport.

Bridgeton Files Suit After FAA OK's Lambert Expansion; Various Factions Speak Out (Oct. 1, 1998). The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports the Federal Aviation Administration on Wednesday approved southwest expansion into Bridgeton at Missouri's Lambert Field. A few hours later, attorneys for Bridgeton filed suit in St. Louis Circuit Court to try to overturn the plan.

California Town Seeks to Set New Noise Standards (Oct. 1, 1998). The Press-Enterprise reports the town of Norco, California, is considering adopting operating standards that would restrict noise from a nightclub and an amusement center to a specific level of decibels.

City Council Says 'No' to Home Depot's Plan to Build Store in Residential Area of El Cajon, California (Oct. 1, 1998). The San Diego Union-Tribune reports that homeowner opposition put a temporary end to Home Depot's plan to build near a residential subdivision. The company has appealed the denial of their conditional-use permit and scheduled an after-election appeal hearing for November.

Police Called Repeatedly to Enforce Peace and Quiet in Los Angeles (Oct. 1, 1998). The Los Angeles Times reports the calls pour in all night long to California's downtown Los Angeles police communications center from Angelenos desperate for a little peace and quiet.

Hearing on Rhode Island Gun Club Permit Request Continued; Neighbors Strongly Object to Club's Relocation (Sep. 30, 1998). The Providence Journal-Bulletin reports a Rhode Island zoning board last night continued a hearing to a fourth night of review on a gun club's application for a special-use permit that would allow it to relocate, frustrating the club's lawyer.

Nearby Towns Say the Issue is Noise; Vow to Fight FAA Approval of Expansion of St. Louis, Missouri's Lambert Field (Sep. 30, 1998). The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports if, as expected, the Federal Aviation Administration gives the green light to the $2.6 billion W-1W plan for expanding Lambert Field, the announcement will set in motion legal actions by public officials in St. Charles County.

Opponents of Expansion at Missouri's Lambert Field Picket in St. Louis (Sep. 29, 1998). The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports despite expected federal approval of Missouri's Lambert Field's expansion plan, three busloads of opponents picketed outside St. Louis City Hall on Monday.

RI Planning Board to Hear Residents' Noise Concerns about Gun Club (Sep. 28, 1998). The Providence Journal-Bulletin reports West Greenwich, Rhode Island, residents will have their turn tomorrow to present arguments to the Zoning Board of Review against allowing a gun club's request for re-location.

Large Retail Complex Brings Noise and Traffic Concerns to Idaho Residents (Sep. 25, 1998). The Idaho Statesman reports plans for a retail complex in Meridian, Idaho, continue to spark concerns over noise and traffic from some nearby residents.

Noise in Nearby Towns Tops Issues at Airport Expansion Forum in New Orleans (Sep. 25, 1998). The Times-Picayune reports although the first forum didn't solve any problems, three Louisiana towns agreed Thursday to continue meeting about the expansion of New Orleans International Airport.

Glendale, Arizona, Considers Measures to Protect Residents from Freeway Noise (Sep. 23, 1998). The Arizona Republic reports Glendale, Arizona's, City Council is considering a number of noise-reduction measures to protect residents from freeway noise.

Home Depot Makes Noise on Long Island and Across the Country (Sep. 23, 1998). Newsday reports people across the country, including many on Long Island, New York, say Home Depot, one of the country's largest retailers, is a noisy neighbor that doesn't belong near residential neighborhoods.

Pennsylvania Airport Buys More Land and Property to Create Noise Buffer Zone (Sep. 23, 1998). The Morning Call reports Pennsylvania's Lehigh-Northampton Airport Authority will purchase land and homes to reduce noise complaints from the Village of Schoenersville.

Plans to Add Go-Cart Track to Putt-Putt Golf Stopped in Mandeville, Florida (Sep. 23, 1998). The Times-Picayune reports that the Planning and Zoning Commission of Mandeville, Florida has rejected a proposal to build a go-cart track next to the Putt-Putt Golf Games.

Developers Plan Open Space Surrounding California's El Toro Airport (Sep. 22, 1998). World Airport Week reports developers for California's El Toro Airport have presented on open space plan to county executives, requesting a park surround the airfield.

New Early A.M. Flight at LA's Burbank Airport Likely to Increase Tensions Over Airplane Noise (Sep. 21, 1998). The Los Angeles Times reports that the administrators of Burbank Airport may allow early departures by Reno Air, angering residents already upset over airport noise.

Texas Rancher Objects to Air Force Plan--Noise from Bombers Threatens Quality of Life (Sep. 20, 1998). The Sacramento Bee reports Texan ranchers are concerned about how noise from an Air Force training range for bombers will effect their animals, ranches, and ways of life.

Noise is a Hot Topic in Yorba Linda, California (Sep. 17, 1998). The Orange County Register reports two of the hottest topics before the Yorba Linda City Council in California were discussed at the council meeting Tuesday. Both issues concerned noise and noise mitigation.

Cargo Business at Seattle's Boeing Field Brings Most Noise Complaints (Sep. 13, 1998). The Seattle Times printed the following letter to the editor from Mike Rees, President of Seattle, Washington's, Council on Airport Affairs. In his letter, Rees contends Boeing Field Airport stopped being a good neighbor when it increased air cargo business. Rees writes:

Editorial Urges Gilbert, Arizona, Town Council and Citizens to do Homework on Proposed Expansion of Williams Gateway Airport (Sep. 13, 1998). The Arizona Republic published the following editorial criticizing the Gilbert, Arizona, Town Council for blindly accepting the Williams Gateway Airport Authority's recommendations for zoning without considering its citizens and the common good.

Los Angeles Area Residents Debate Impact of Proposed El Toro Airport (Sep. 13, 1998). The Los Angeles Times published the following letters from residents California residents about the proposed El Toro Airport. The following letter was written by Leonard Kranser of Dana Point, California:

LA Planning Commission Recommends Noise Limits at Universal Studios (Sep. 12, 1998). The Los Angeles Times reports that resident outcry has convinced the Los Angeles County Regional Planning Commission to consider noise restrictions for Universal Studios.

Opponents Stand Ground Against Noise and Go-Carts in Louisiana Town (Sep. 10, 1998). The Times-Picayune reports Mandeville, Louisiana, residents still oppose plans for a go-cart track at a local miniature golf course, despite the owner's pitch that it will offer a positive recreational alternative for the area's teens.

Leaders Meet to Discuss O'Hare Airport; Noise Reduction Likely on Agenda (Sep. 9, 1998). The Chicago Tribune reports Chicago's Mayor Richard M. Daley, state legislators, major airline executives, and north suburban business leaders will meet to discuss O'Hare International Airport on Thursday during a closed-door meeting.

Housing Development Approved Near Illinois' Palwaukee Airport, Clause Prevents Noise Lawsuits from Residents (Sep. 9, 1998). The Chicago Daily Herald reports the village board of Wheeling, Illinois unanimously approved a new subdivision on a piece of land north of Palwaukee Municipal Airport.

Homeowner in Washington State Sues Developers, Charges They Destroyed Natural Noise Buffer and Devalued His Property (Sep. 5, 1998). The News Tribune reports Tacoma, Washington, resident Earl Petit plans to picket the Pierce County Street of Dreams custom home show on its final weekend. Petit claims the developers removed a natural noise buffer between his home and a scrap metal yard, destroying his right to peace and quiet and devaluing his property.

Neighbors of Pittsfield, Maine, Airport Object to Additional Hanger, Citing Noise, Traffic and Safety Concerns (Sep. 5, 1998). The Bangor Daily News reports Maine's Pittsfield planning board will meet Wednesday, Sept. 16, to review a conditional use application for a new hangar at the municipal airport. Neighbors are concerned about increased noise and traffic that the new structure may bring.

Texas Town Rejects Amphitheater, Noise and Preservation of Park Land Drive Decision (Sep. 5, 1998). The Dallas Morning News reports Bedford, Texas, City Council members say a Park Board recommendation may prevent the chance for an amphitheater on city park land.

Finger Pointing and Blaming When Residents and Local Officials Discuss Noise from Warwick's Expanded T. F. Green Airport (Sep. 4, 1998). The Providence Journal-Bulletin reports Warwick, Rhode Island, Councilman Gene Kelly held a meeting on airport noise last night. The incumbent mayor, a mayoral candidate, and a state airport official turned out to respond to residents' concerns about noise and expansion at Warwick's T. F. Green Airport.

Neighbors in Rural Florida React to Welding Business (Aug. 23, 1998). The Tampa Tribune reports that persons living in rural areas near Sydney, Florida are shocked to learn that the county can grant a rural home industry permit without a public hearing or other notice to nearby property owners.

Construction Noise for New Stadium Regulated by Noise Levels, Rather Than Curfews in Tacoma, Washington (Aug. 14, 1998). The Tacoma Washington News Tribune reports that the City of Seattle averted a major showdown with the company building the new Seattle Seahawks stadium. The conflict arose when the city placed construction-hour limitations of 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. on the permit because the stadium is being built across the street from a 108-unit condominium. Seattle later retreated from its position and placed noise-specific rather than time-specific restrictions on the construction project.

Changes in Land-use Policies Recommended to Mitigate the Impact of Airport Noise in Albuquerque, New Mexico (Aug. 13, 1998). The Albuquerque Journal reports that noise consultants are recommending new land-use policies for the city of Albuquerque, New Mexico and the surrounding county to help mitigate the impact of airport noise.

Small Town Turned Suburb Suffering from Noise Pollution in Pennsylvania (Aug. 12, 1998). The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports that life is miserable for some township residents in Adams, Pennsylvania. Residents complained to the Township Supervisors about noise emanating from dirt bikes and industrial functions. They are asking town supervisors to adopt a noise ordinance so noisemakers can be brought to court.

Warwick, RI, Mayor Suggests Ways for Airport to be a Good Neighbor (Aug. 11, 1998). The Providence Journal-Bulletin published the following editorial by Lincoln Chafee, mayor of Warwick, Rhode Island, about Warwick's T.F. Green Airport. Mayor Chafee outlines ways for the airport to be a good neighbor:

Madison Imposes Restrictions in Stadium Area After Residents Complain of Noise (Aug. 10, 1998). The Capital Times reports new, tougher rules in Madison, Wisconsin, will limit hours for outdoor beer gardens during this season's University of Wisconsin football games.

Long Island Towns Restrict Places to Ride Noisy ATVs (Aug. 9, 1998). Newsday reports Smithtown, New York, officials say a recent crackdown on noisy all-terrain vehicles and dirt bikes in neighboring Brookhaven has brought riders into their town in search of open spaces to ride. Citing noise and environmental and liability issues, Smithtown is enforcing its own restrictions.

County Aviation Official Says New Nevada Airport Necessary (Aug. 9, 1998). The Las Vegas Review-Journal published the following editorial by Randall H. Walker, director of Nevada's Clark County Department of Aviation. Walker advocates for the Ivanpah Airport project, deeming it a necessity to accommodate the Las Vegas Valley's future needs. Walker writes:

Two NY Residents Sue Company for Excessive Noise and Vibrations (Aug. 8, 1998). The Buffalo News reports two Forestville, New York, residents who live near a manufacturing plant have filed a multi-million dollar lawsuit charging excessive noise and vibrations.

Executive's Helicopter Permitted Daily Trip Despite Maryland Residents' Complaints about Noise (Aug. 8, 1998). The Washington Times reports Rite Aid Chairman Martin Grass has received permission from Baltimore County officials to take off and land in his company helicopter at his home in Lutherville, Maryland, despite complaints from neighbors about the noise.

Minn. Town Objects to Airport Expansion, Citing Noise Concerns and Charging Breach of Promise (Aug. 7, 1998). The Star Tribune reports despite pressure from the Metropolitan Airports Commission (MAC), officials and residents in Eden Prairie, Minnesota, object to expansion of their "reliever" airport because they fear an increase in noise and an alteration in their quality of life.

Arizona Residents Battle Runway Expansion, Fearing Noisier Skies (Aug. 6, 1998). The Arizona Republic reports residents who live near Arizona's Chandler Municipal Airport object to proposals to lengthen one of the airport's two runways and to rezone most of the land around it for commercial or industrial development.

Florida County Drops Grandfathering Clause in Proposed Noise Ordinance (Aug. 5, 1998). The Stuart News/Port St. Lucie News reports Martin County, Florida's, proposed noise rules could cost some businesses thousands of dollars to be in compliance.

Virginia Speedway May Be in Business by March 1999 unless Neighbors Can Bring the Project to a Halt (Aug. 2, 1998). The Virginian-Pilot reports that promoters of a Motorsports Speedway in Chesapeake want to build a half-mile oval track and stadium in Chesapeake, Virginia. Plans for a motor racetrack have been tossed around the Chesapeake-Suffolk line the past four years.

No Peace and Quiet? In Maryland, Call Noise Cop (Aug. 2, 1998). The Sun reports in an effort to respond to a new focus on noise, Maryland's Department of the Environment now employs a state noise cop.

County Commissioners Reverse Their Decision to Limit Zoning for Churches in Green Cove Springs, Florida (Aug. 1, 1998). The Florida Times-Union reports that the Clay County commissioners have reversed their May decision to restrict the location and size of church facilities. Their decision had banned church complexes of more than 3,500 square feet from local, neighborhood-type roads.

Florida Resident Upset with Noise from Neighboring Trucking Business and Blames Clay County for Poor Zoning Practices (Aug. 1, 1998). The Florida Times-Union reports that spot zoning in Clay County, Florida has made life miserable for resident Walter Callaway but the county’s new comprehensive zoning plan reportedly addresses future spot zoning problems, and creates land-use categories and regulations to control growth.

Nuns in Dallas, TX, Continue to Negotiate with City about Protection from Traffic Noise (Aug. 1, 1998). The Dallas Morning News reports negotiations continue between a group of Carmelite nuns who want to protect their property from increased traffic noise and the city of Dallas, Texas, that wants to expand two roads adjacent to the sisters' convent.

Hundreds Oppose Road Expansion in an Effort to Preserve Catholic Sisters’ Peace and Quietude in Dallas, Texas (Jul. 29, 1998). The Dallas Morning News reports that over 310 letters have been sent to the city requesting that it alter its plans to expand Bowen and Sublett roads. Those writing the letters want the peace and quietude of a Carmelite convent preserved.

Florida Officials Pave Way for Large Development by Prohibiting Future Residents From Suing Over Aircraft Noise (Jul. 28, 1998). The Orlando Sentinel Tribune reports that the City Council in Orlando, Florida voted on Monday to approve an agreement that mostly prohibits future residents in a project known as Vista East from suing nearby Orlando International Airport over airplane noise. The article explains that the council's action paves the way for the $500 million residential and commercial project to begin.

California's Universal Studios Prepares to Start Major Construction Project (Jul. 27, 1998). The Los Angeles Times reports that in Los Angeles, California the second phase of Universal Studios' proposed 3.3-million-square-foot expansion. The project in its entirety is being looked at by county planners. It's scale had been diminished after residents complained last year, but the second phase construction could bring the project up to the size of its original grandeur. The second phase would develop 250,000 square feet to eventually be used to expand Universal's City Walk attraction.

Fight is Shaping up Over Proposal for Airpark in Kentucky (Jul. 27, 1998). The Courier-Journal reports that a battle is shaping up over a proposal to build a 3,000-acre airport and industrial-park complex outside Bowling Green, Kentucky, near Smiths Grove, a town of about 700. Today, the article says, a feasibility study compiled by HNTB Corp. will be released that will identify at least two proposed sites for an airpark. Meanwhile, a residents group has formed that opposes the airpark.

Environmental Impact Report of Redevelopment District in California City Finds Noise and Other Problems Can be Mitigated (Jul. 24, 1998). The Los Angeles Times reports that Ventura, California City Council will hold a public hearing on August 26 to address a proposed redevelopment district. The project would improve the quality of many older, run-down buildings in an attempt to lure private investment in the area. An environmental report was drafted to consider the project, and five potential problems were outlined. They were traffic, school crowding, air pollution during construction, noise, and historic preservation. The problems can be planned for, however.

Gripe Session on Airport Issues Held in Rhode Island Town (Jul. 24, 1998). The Providence Journal-Bulletin reports that about 165 residents attended a "gripe session" in Warwick, Rhode Island last night and aired their feelings about noise and development at the T.F. Green Airport. The session was held by City Councilor Gerry Gibbons. Also attending the meeting were Lincoln Chafee, Warwick's Mayor, George Zainyeh, the Democratic candidate for mayor, and Elaine Roberts, executive director of the state Airport Corporation.

Maryland Residents and Developer Fight Over Rezoning Land for New Strip Mall (Jul. 24, 1998). The Baltimore Sun reports that the Howard County Zoning Board in Ellicott City, Maryland considered a request yesterday about re-zoning a parcel of land across from the Long Gate Shopping Center on Montgomery Road from residential to commercial uses. Triangle Development Corporation wants to build a five store strip mall on the site, the article says. While nine residents objected to the re-zoning, saying the area is becoming too commercial, two residents living on the site support the re-zoning because, they said, the area has become intolerable due to noise, traffic, bright lights, and restaurant odors. The board is expected to make a decision Wednesday, the article says.

Columnist Argues That Hong Kong Residents Don't Have a Case on Jet Noise From New Airport, But They Should Have Been Told About Flight Path Routes (Jul. 23, 1998). The South China Morning Post printed an editorial in which the writer argues that residents complaining about jet noise coming from the flight paths of the new Chek Lap Kok airport in Hong Kong don't have a case against the government. But, the editorial says, the government should have informed residents about the flight path routes, or at least provided a channel through which they could easily find out the information.

Maryland State Officials Enlarge Airport Noise Zone, Throwing a Wrench in Developer's Plans (Jul. 23, 1998). The Baltimore Sun reports that the Maryland Aviation Administration changed the noise zone boundary, an area in which homes cannot be built, for the Baltimore-Washington International Airport in March. That move has angered developer Earl Armiger, who already had started plans for a 31-home development in Elkridge that now falls within the noise zone. Armiger has appealed to the Board of Airport Zoning Appeals, asking for permission to build in the noise zone. The board is scheduled to hear the case on October 16.

Florida City Council Rules That Resident Must Get Rid of Basketball Court (Jul. 22, 1998). The Press Journal reports that the code enforcement board in Boca Raton, Florida voted 3-2 Monday that a resident has to get rid of a concrete slab in a vacant lot used as a makeshift basketball court because she couldn't produce a permit for the slab, which was poured in 1965. The issue arose when a resident who lives near the vacant lot complained about the noise from the basketball games.

Proposed Home Depot Store Meets With Resistance from New Hampshire Neighbors (Jul. 22, 1998). The Union Leader reports that a public hearing was held last night at the planning board meeting in Merrimack, New Hampshire on a proposal for a Home Depot store on Route 101A. About 25 residents who live near the proposed store attended the meeting and raised concerns about noise, traffic and the store's proposed location on well-head property.

Washington County Commissioners Deny Wal-Mart Request to Rezone Property (Jul. 22, 1998). The Spokesman-Review reports that commissioners in Spokane County, Washington Tuesday unanimously denied a request by Wal-Mart to rezone residential property for a regional shopping center on the north side of Seattle. Residents who had opposed the rezoning because of the size, lights, noise, traffic, and possible 24-hour operation of the store were thrilled with the decision. The article notes that Wal-Mart has not yet announced whether it will appeal the decision to the Superior Court.

Arizona Town Officials Seek to Build 3,000 Homes Near Air Force Base; Military Opposes the Plan (Jul. 20, 1998). The Arizona Republic reports that city officials in El Mirage, Arizona hope to approve more than 3,000 new homes during the next several months for locations directly below the flight path of the Luke Air Force Base. In response to the plan, the Airport Military Preservation Committee, a group of state lawmakers and military and community representatives, voted last week to ask the state Attorney General's Office to examine whether El Mirage would be violating an Arizona statute if the subdivisions are built.

Judge Hears Case on Motorcycle Course in Rural Wisconsin; Residents Angry About Noise and Afraid of Course Owner (Jul. 19, 1998). The Wisconsin State Journal reports that residents are angry about the noise from a motorcycle course in Dunn, Wisconsin. Earlier this month, Dane County Judge Richard Callaway heard arguments in the dispute, and could rule on it Tuesday when the hearing resumes. County officials have argued that the course's owners have violated zoning laws that prohibit a motorcycle course on land zoned for farming, and failed to get a proper erosion control permit to move dirt to build the course. Many residents who object to the motorcycle course are afraid of the course's owners, who have done jail time and had additional brushes with the law. Meanwhile, the town of Dunn board will hold a public hearing Tuesday on a proposed ordinance to limit "disorderly conduct with a motor vehicle" that appears to be aimed at controlling the motorcycle course.

Residents in Ontario Start Picketing Courier Warehouse Over Noise, While City Takes Company to Court (Jul. 19, 1998). The Ottawa Citizen reports that residents in the Blossom Park area of Gloucester, Ontario are planning a week-long protest against Dicom Express, a courier warehouse located near their homes, over noise that comes from the facility's trucks. Meanwhile, the city of Gloucester last week decided to take the courier company to court for violating the city's noise law. But officials with Dicom Express said the suit will be thrown out, as an earlier suit by the city was, because the company is located in an industrial zone.

California Planning Commission Votes to Skip Environmental Study in Converting Residentially Zoned Land to Commercially Zoned Land (Jul. 16, 1998). The Fresno Bee reports that the Planning Commission in Fresno, California voted unanimously Wednesday to consider the question of re-zoning 26 acres of land from residential to commercial uses without conducting an environmental impact report. As a result, the article says, the city will decide in August whether to re-zone the land. Staff members at the city planning department and some residents opposed re-zoning the site without an environmental report to assess the impacts of re-zoning on traffic, noise, and aesthetics.

D.C. Residents Try to Shut Down Noisy and Dangerous Nightclub (Jul. 16, 1998). The Washington Post reports that residents in Washington, D.C. are trying to shut down the Palace nightclub, in the 300 block of Kennedy Street NW. Residents living near the club say the club is noisy, creates traffic problems, and most of all, is dangerous to the surrounding community. A shoot-out outside the club occurred Sunday, and a stabbing occurred in April. On Tuesday, about 24 local residents demonstrated outside the club, calling for its closure. The article explains that a recently passed law, the Suspension of Liquor Licenses Amendment Act, may help residents in their fight, because it allows the alcohol licenses of establishments to be suspended when violence in or near the club endangers the community or the police.

Entertainment Center Approved in California, Despite Some Residents' Objections (Jul. 16, 1998). The Orange County Register reports that the Planning Commission in Garden Grove, California on Wednesday unanimously approved a proposal to build Riverwalk, a $400 million entertainment center along Harbor Boulevard, despite some residents' concerns about noise, traffic, and parking. The article notes that the development includes a half-mile circular stream surrounding jazz clubs, restaurants and shops, a 16-to-24-screen movie-theater complex, a 500-room hotel, an entertainment center with a bowling alley, an ice-skating rink, and a virtual-reality arcade. The project now must gain approval from the City Council. Meanwhile, residents can comment on the draft environmental impact report for the project until August 14.

Florida Airport Officials Ask Condominium Developer for Noise Liability Waivers, But Developers Refuse (Jul. 15, 1998). The St. Petersburg Times reports officials at the Albert Whitted Municipal Airport in St. Petersburg, Florida are worried about the location of Vinoy Place, a proposed condominium development below the final approach path for one of the airport's runways. The article says airport officials asked the developers to require buyers to sign liability waivers, protecting the airport from noise lawsuits. But developers, on the advice of the city's legal department, have refused; however, they say they will provide full disclosure to buyers about the airport's proximity.

Rhode Island Zoning Board Postpones Public Hearing on Gun Club Permit (Jul. 15, 1998). The Providence Journal-Bulletin reports that the Zoning Board of Review in West Greenwich, Rhode Island postponed a public hearing last night on a special-use permit sought by the Wincheck Gun Club, because the club's two expert witnesses were unable to attend and because board members requested site plans for the proposed club. More than 50 residents concerned about noise attended the meeting and waited two-and-a-half hours without getting a chance to speak. The Zoning Board moved the public hearing to its August 25 meeting.

Maryland Developers Seek to Develop Land Near Highways, While County Officials Struggle to Protect Future Homeowners From Traffic Noise (Jul. 13, 1998). The Baltimore Sun reports that the counties around Baltimore, Maryland are increasingly facing a problem as developers try to build on land parcels close to major highways, and residents demand noise walls. But the State Highway Administration will not build noise barriers to protect any neighborhood that was built after the roads were constructed. State officials instead are recommending that county officials develop local policies to protect future homeowners from highway noise. As a result, counties are requiring developers to build further away from highways, build their own noise walls, or take other steps to mitigate noise.

Residents Oppose Pennsylvania Shopping Center, Saying it Will Bring Traffic and Noise (Jul. 12, 1998). The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports that residents in Cranberry, Pennsylvania are opposing a proposed 550,000-square-foot regional shopping center because they believe it will bring additional truck traffic and noise to their neighborhood. At a township planning commission meeting on Wednesday, residents voiced their concerns. At the end of the meeting, planning commissioners asked for another meeting with developers to address questions raised by residents and staff members at the township.

California Residents Protest Raceway Expansion (Jul. 10, 1998). The San Francisco Chronicle reports that about 50 people attended a meeting yesterday before the Sonoma County (California) Board of Zoning Adjustments to debate the draft environmental impact report of the expansion of the Sears Point Raceway in the Santa Rosa area. The article says residents in Sonoma Valley are opposed to the expansion, saying it will bring more noise, traffic, and visual blight. The article notes that public comments will be taken through July 27, and then will be incorporated into the final environmental study. Meanwhile, Sonoma Valley Citizens Advisory Commission unanimously passed a resolution recommending the zoning board reject the current environmental impact report and redraft it with adequate mitigation plans.

Neighbors of Noisy Racetrack in PA Urged to Call Police with Complaints (Jul. 8, 1998). The Morning Call reports neighbors of a Silverdale, Pennsylvania, racing track complained Monday to the city council about excessive noise and dust. They were advised to report their complaints to police in an effort to get the noise ordinance enforced.

Gun Club Relocation Endorsed by Rhode Island Planning Board Despite Opposition from Residents with Noise Concerns (Jul. 7, 1998). The Providence Journal-Bulletin reports the West Greenwich, Rhode Island, Planning Board voted last night to recommend that the Zoning Board of Review approve an area gun club's relocation. The recommendation came despite two dissenting votes and a number of residents expressing noise concerns.

Residents of Rural LA County Say Peace and Quiet Ruined by Hunt Club; They Will Appeal Club's Permit and Seek Legal Action if Necessary (Jul. 5, 1998). The Los Angeles Times reports that neighbors of ranch land that is being used for "bird shoots" by a hunting club are upset at the noise and have appealed a decision to allow the activities to continue. They promised to file lawsuits if necessary.

Some Montreal Residents Say Neighborhoods and Bars Don't Mix, Citing Noise and Traffic (Jul. 2, 1998). The Gazette reports bars and restaurants in residential area of Montreal have become controversial. Residents complain about noise. West End business owners say they are working to peacefully co-exist in neighborhoods.

Carmelite Nuns Ask for Noise Buffer from New Roads; Texas Town Says Wall Too Expensive (Jul. 1, 1998). The Fort Worth Star-Telegram reports two former mayors and a former city councilwoman spoke to the City Council last night on behalf of a group of nuns who say the expansion of two roads threatens the serenity of their south Arlington, Texas, monastery.

Cleveland's City Council Asks FAA to Follow Through on Home Insulation Despite New Noise Exposure Map (Jul. 1, 1998). The Plain Dealer reports Cleveland City Council members are working to make sure residents near Cleveland Hopkins International Airport who have waited years to get their homes insulated from jet noise actually receive the government-financed improvements. The council is also urging the Federal Aviation Administration to block the sale of land north of the airport unless a consultant conclusively determines the land is not needed for the airport.

Residents Object to University Soccer Stadium in St. Paul Neighborhood (Jul. 1, 1998). The Star Tribune reports plans by the University of Minnesota to build a women's soccer stadium on its St. Paul campus have nearby residents and some local officials upset. They say it's inappropriate to build a soccer stadium in a residential neighborhood because of the noise, traffic and parking problems it will cause.

Councilman Says Constituents Will Suffer for Burbank Airport Expansion in Noise, Traffic and Pollution (Jun. 30, 1998). The Daily News of Los Angeles published the following editorial by Dave Golonski, a Burbank City Council member. In his response to a recent commentary about the expansion of California's Burbank-Glendale-Pasadena Airport, Golonski contends his constituents will pay for the current plans for airport expansion in noise, traffic, and pollution.

Noise Regulations for Watercraft in Maine (Jun. 30, 1998). The Central Maine Morning Sentinel reports new laws regulating motorboats, including limiting the noise levels of all powerboats go into effect next week in Maine.

Anti-Aircraft Noise Activists Win Concessions at Australia's Perth Airport (Jun. 29, 1998). AAP Newsfeed reports Australia's Perth airport owners have given in to pressure from anti-aircraft noise activists, imposing several restrictions on the use of a proposed runway extension.

Calif. Residents Don't Want Concrete Plant to Relocate to Weimar (Jun. 28, 1998). The Sacramento Bee reports Weimar, California, residents were pleased Thursday morning when the Placer County Planning Commission voted 3-2 to deny Manuel Brothers Inc. a conditional use permit for a concrete batch plant on Canyon Way. Residents oppose the plant relocation based on concerns about noise pollution, increased traffic, and property devaluation.

Homeowners in Tennessee Say Property Values Have Fallen on Their Homes From Noise and Air Pollution (Jun. 28, 1998). The Knoxville News-Sentinel reports that more than 20 residents of the Eagle Bend neighborhood in Clinton, Tennessee say their property values have fallen and the assessments on their homes should be reduced because of the air and noise pollution coming from the nearby Carden Farm Industrial Park. The residents appeared before the Anderson County Board of Equalization recently, and presented a petition to the board contesting what residents say are the "high property tax reappraisals" on their homes.

New Laws on Maine's Waters Restricting Noise and Personal Watercraft (Jun. 28, 1998). The Portland Press Herald reports as Maine's busiest boating season begins next weekend, game wardens are gearing up to enforce new boating laws - including restrictions on noise levels and the minimum age for operating personal watercraft.

Planning Commission Rejects Preschool Expansion in Calif. Neighborhood When Residents Stress Noise and Traffic Concerns (Jun. 28, 1998). The Sacramento Bee reports plans for an expanded preschool in Shingle Springs , California, were rejected Thursday by the El Dorado County Planning Commission. Opponents pressured commission to reverse its initial approval, citing the inappropriateness of the site in a neighborhood and pointing to noise and traffic concerns.

Columbus Resident Advocates for Preservation of Quiet Streets and Neighborhoods (Jun. 26, 1998). The Columbus Dispatch published the following editorial by Columbus resident, Joe Motil. He opposes the building of a major thoroughfare through an historic section of the city, which he says will bring noise, traffic, and the destruction of urban green space and a neighborhood. Motil writes:

Wisconsin Town Wants to Beef Up Nuisance Ordinance to Quiet Motorbike Noise (Jun. 26, 1998). The Capital Times reports residents of Dunn, Wisconsin, say motorbikes racing on a nearby track keep them awake at night, but the owner of the property says he's a good neighbor who regulates racing hours.

Plan for Roller Hockey Rink Brings Concerns of Noise and Traffic in NJ Town (Jun. 25, 1998). The Record reports more than 60 residents attended a planning board meeting this week in New Milford, New Jersey, to discuss proposed outdoor roller-hockey rink. While some tried to demonstrate the need for the facility, others talked of the noise and traffic the rink would bring to the neighborhood.

Ballpark Approved by Illinois Village Trustees Despite Residents' Objections to Noise and Traffic (Jun. 24, 1998). The Chicago Daily Herald Cook reports Schaumburg trustees unanimously approved final plans for a publicly financed minor-league ballpark Tuesday, despite objections of noise and traffic congestion from some homeowners.

Enviromental Groups Oppose Air Cargo Hub in Nevada's Ivanpah Valley (Jun. 24, 1998). The Las Vegas Review-Journal reports environmentalists said Tuesday they oppose Clark County's plans for a new airport in the Ivanpah Valley because it would disrupt national parks, stimulate more urban growth, and increase air and noise pollution.

Columnist Criticizes Louisville International Airport's Noise Monitoring System (Jun. 23, 1998). The Courier-Journal published a column by Bob Hill that contends officials in charge of the $700 million expansion of Kentucky's Louisville International Airport are deaf to noise pollution concerns of residents.

Sound Wall in Developers' Plans Sparks Controversy in Calif. Town (Jun. 21, 1998). The article reports initial plans for the Heritage Park Estates project included a 14-foot-high sound wall, but members of the town staff suggested installing an earthen berm instead. "We have looked at several different options on how to mitigate the sound and how to meet the town's concerns about preserving a semirural appearance to the project," Remington said after the meeting. "Just doing an earthen berm would require a massive amount of dirt to be moved." A berm would involve moving 12,000 to 14,000 cubic yards of dirt to the site, an effort that would cost $120,000 to $140,000, Remington said. "That's a big pile," he said. The berm also would result in the loss of 11 lots.

Study Predicts High Noise Levels for Planned Housing near Colorado's Buckley Air Base (Jun. 21, 1998). The Rocky Mountain News reports a recently released report by the Air Force concerning noise levels from Buckley Air National Guard Base may force Aurora, Colorado, city planners to reconsider already-approved developments.

Noise Concerns from Airport Delay New School in Las Vegas (Jun. 20, 1998). The Las Vegas Review-Journal reports noise concerns may stall construction for a new high school planned near Las Vegas' McCarran International Airport.

Residents in Tullahoma, Tennesee Fight City's Plans for a Recreation Complex Because of Anticipated Noise and Traffic (Jun. 18, 1998). The Tennesean reports that plans for a 38-acre recreation complex is being met with opposition by homeowners in a nearby subdivision who believe the park will bring an increase in noise, traffic and loitering near their homes. The plans are under review with Tullahoma city officials.

Stadium Plans To Go To City Zoning Commission; Plans Get Cool Reception from Residents in Schaumberg and Roselle, Illinois (Jun. 18, 1998). The Chicago Daily Herald reports that nearly 125 people attended a Schaumburg zoning hearing June 18 regarding the proposed minor-league baseball stadium. Many residents in attendance argued the proposed stadium site - in the middle of single-family suburbia- was not fitting to the suburban village of Schaumberg.

Speedway Expansion Challenged by Residents' Group in Loudon, New Hampshire (Jun. 17, 1998). The Union Leader reports that the New Hampshire International Speedway (NHIS) track in Loudon, New Hampshire admitted in court that it built more seats than permitted by the Loudon Planning Board. A citizens' group opposed to the expansion are taking legal action.

Las Vegas Residents and Business Owners Question McCarran Airport's Agenda in Widespread Buyout Tactics (Jun. 15, 1998). The Las Vegas Business Press reports some residents and business owners in areas surrounding Las Vegas are questioning the agenda of McCarran International Airport's seemingly aggressive but selective buyout procedures.

Missouri Residents and Shopping Center Developers Try to Find Compromise (Jun. 13, 1998). The Kansas City Star reports that residents of the Foxridge subdivision in Kansas City, Missouri met earlier this week with developers of Olathe Station, a proposed shopping and entertainment complex at 119th Street and Strang Line Road, to discuss details of the development. The article explains that when the project was first proposed two years ago, residents and developers quickly took sides against each other. Now, they are trying to resolve their differences and mitigate potential noise pollution and other problems for residents.

Early Morning Truck Noise Angers Colorado Residents and Sparks Zoning Debate (Jun. 12, 1998). The Denver Post reports that residents in Commerce City, Colorado are opposing the proposed re-zoning of a lot to industrial use due to the noise from early morning trucks at the site. The article notes the land is zoned for agricultural uses, but the owner said he has been used the property for industrial purposes and paying industrial taxes since 1958. County commissioners believe they may have reached a compromise, the article says.

Legality of Private Go-cart Track Questioned in Milwaukee, Wisconsin (Jun. 12, 1998). The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reports that private property owners have threatened to sue the Town Board for its decision to stop construction of a private go-cart track.

Railroad Company Says it Will Build Rail Yard in Texas City, Against City's Wishes (Jun. 11, 1998). The Dallas Morning News reports that officials with the Kansas City Southern Railway Company said Wednesday they would build a 15-track rail yard in Wylie, Texas. The rail yard was part of a controversial project proposed by the railroad that voters rejected almost a year ago. The railroad company no longer plans to build a business park and truck shipping center, which were part of the earlier project, the article says. City officials fear that building a rail yard will leave the city with more trains and noise, but no economic gain. Residents who fought the earlier proposed project were dismayed at the announcement.

Ohio Neighbors Upset About Quarry Noise; No Relief is in Sight (Jun. 11, 1998). The Columbus Dispatch reports that Yvette and Leon Blauvelt, residents of Hamilton Township, Ohio, have complained about noise from a sand and gravel operation near their home. But after investigating the complaints, Columbus officials have said the quarry doesn't violate any city zoning regulations.

Retailers in Oklahoma Town Worry That Proposed Wal-Mart Will Increase Rent and Noise (Jun. 10, 1998). The Daily Oklahoman reports that the City Council in Norman, Oklahoma will decide later this month whether to grant requests to Wal-Mart to build super-centers in east and west Norman. Meanwhile, some retailers near the proposed stores are complaining that the super-centers would increase rents at their locations and would increase noise.

Florida Residents Complain About Truck Noise at Spring Water Plant (Jun. 10, 1998). The Sun-Sentinel reports that residents in Tamarac, Florida living near the Zephyrhills Spring Water distribution center have raised complaints about the noise from the company's delivery trucks. The article explains that the border between Tamarac and Fort Lauderdale is located between the neighborhood and the plant, creating jurisdictional difficulties in addressing the problem.

Developers' Plans to Build Subdivision Near Tennessee Army Helicopter Base is Scuttled (Jun. 9, 1998). The Tennessean reports that plans for a subdivision near the Fort Campbell Military Reservation near Clarksville, Tennessee have been scuttled due to concerns about noise from the Sabre Army Heliport and other reasons. Developers say that Army officials did not raise noise concerns until they already had invested money in roads and other infrastructure for the subdivision. Now, developers believe they have no alternative but to sell the land to the Army, but say they stand to lose millions on the deal.

Developers of Residential Subdivision in Nebraska Purchase Racetrack to Eliminate Noise Problem (Jun. 9, 1998). The Omaha World-Herald reports that developers of the Deer Creek subdivision in Omaha, Nebraska have purchased the Sunset Speedway at 114th and State Streets so that the presence of the track wouldn't deter residents from purchasing the upscale homes. The racetrack will close after its racing season in 2000, and owners expect to relocate the track to a new site.

Missouri Residents Oppose Plan for Shopping Center in Rural Area Due to Noise and Traffic (Jun. 8, 1998). The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports that the Planning and Zoning Commission in Wildwood, Missouri is considering a plan to re-zone 18 acres of land from residential to commercial use, paving the way for a shopping center at Highways 100 and 109. But residents attending a meeting of the commission said they opposed the project because it would increase noise and traffic, and destroy the green space and rural atmosphere of the town.

Massachusetts Zoning Board Rules that Quarry Violates Noise Bylaws (Jun. 7, 1998). The Sunday Telegram reports that the Zoning Board of Appeals in Lancaster, Massachusetts has upheld a March ruling by the city Building Inspector that the quarry owned by P.J. Keating Co. is violating town bylaws governing noise from blasting and truck traffic, and must be closed down. A cousin of the quarry owner last year asked the Building Inspector to issue a cease and desist order for noise at the quarry, after the cousin was denied a permit to open a competing quarry in the same area due to noise issues.

Resident Decries Residential Development Near California Airport (Jun. 7, 1998). The Los Angeles Times printed the following letter-to-the-editor from Sal Del Valle, a resident of North Hills, California, regarding jet noise and residential development near the Van Nuys Airport:

Proposed 24-Hour Gas Station Angers Pennsylvania Residents (Jun. 7, 1998). The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports that residents are objecting to a 24-hour gas station proposed for Route 19 in Peters Township, Pennsylvania, saying the development will create constant noise, traffic, and bright lighting near their homes.

Ohio Residents Battle Truck Noise and Dust From Noisy Warehouse (Jun. 6, 1998). The Cincinnati Enquirer reports that residents in Cincinnati, Ohio are complaining about the noise, dust, and other problems at the Carthage Mills warehouse complex near their homes. In response to the problem, Cincinnati Mayor Roxanne Qualls has introduced a motion that would change the zoning in the area to residential uses only, which would force Carthage Mills to move.

Seattle Set to Approve Floatplane Takeoffs and Landings Near Downtown Pier (Jun. 6, 1998). The Seattle Times reports that city officials in Seattle, Washington are set to approve a project that would allow float-planes to take off and land 72 times a day near Pier 54 on Elliott Bay, after reviewing the proposed project for more than a year. If permitted, the project would allow Kenmore Air to operate 20-minute scenic trips from a 25-foot float off the pier. Meanwhile, some residents who live in the downtown are opposing the project, saying it will bring more noise. If the project is approved, the article notes, it likely will be appealed and will face a more lengthy review.

Colorado Air National Guard Base Releases Noise and Safety Study (Jun. 5, 1998). The Denver Post reports that officials at Colorado's Buckley Air National Guard released results on Thursday of a noise and safety study that looked at impacts on Aurora and Arapahoe County, the communities most affected by the base's aircraft operations. The study, known as the Department of Defense's Air Installation Compatible Use Zone Study, was intended to provide non-binding guidelines for local governments as they develop land-use plans in areas surrounding the military installation. The article notes that although residents living near the base have complained about the noise, the city of Aurora has continued to approve residential developments near the base.

Illinois Residents Oppose Softball Field Expansion (Jun. 3, 1998). The Chicago Daily Herald reports that village officials in Lombard, Illinois recently approved a plan for three new softball fields at Madison Meadow park. But now, residents living near the park are saying they weren't told about the project, and are objecting that it would bring more traffic, noise, and trash to their neighborhood. A meeting is scheduled for June 9 between residents and parks district officials.

Maryland County Approves Plans for Massive Development, Pending Satisfactory Noise and Traffic Mitigation Measures (Jun. 3, 1998). The Washington Post reports that the County Council in Prince George's County, Maryland voted 8 to 1 yesterday to approve plans for National Harbor, a massive entertainment and retail development, as long as the developer first addresses noise and traffic concerns. The decision came after the County Council created special rules for the project last summer to speed up its approval process, including a provision that stipulated the developer did not have to submit a detailed site plan for the project. The $1 billion project still must be approved by the National Capital Planning Commission, the article notes, which is conducting an environmental study of the project and is not expected to vote on the issue until late 1998 or early 1999.

Rhode Island Marina Gets Okay to Expand Despite Residents' Concerns About Noise (Jun. 2, 1998). The Providence Journal-Bulletin reports that the Town Council in Barrington, Rhode Island voted 4 to 1 to approve a request from Brewer's Cove Haven Marina last night to re-zone Rodeo Drive from residential to waterfront business. The decision allows the marina to expand its business onto a 14,600-square-foot plot between Rodeo Drive and Bullock's Cove and south of marina's main property, the article notes. Residents living near the marina objected to the change, saying it could change the residential character of the neighborhood. The Town Council went against the advice of the Planning Board, which last week said that the marina's expansion was not consistent with town's Comprehensive Plan and may set a precedent for changing zoning on single plots.

Florida County Commission Passes Land Regulations that Restrict the Size of Some Community Facilities in Residential Areas (May 30, 1998). The Florida Times-Union reports that the Clay County Commission in Green Cove Springs, Florida passed a package of land development regulations Tuesday that restricts larger churches, child-care centers, and other community facilities in residential areas. The regulations were passed to preserve established residential areas from development that could increase traffic and noise, the article says. The regulation changes stemmed partly from residents' opposition to proposed day-care centers adjacent to residential areas on U.S. 17 south of Orange Park.

Georgia County Commissioners Turn Down Request for Helicopter Pad in Residential Area (May 28, 1998). The Atlanta Journal reports that the Coweta County (Georgia) Board of Commissioners voted 5-0 last week to reject a request for a special-use permit for a helicopter port at a residence. The article notes that the commissioners expressed concern over noise and safety issues related to the request.

Noise and Unruly Patrons at Music Hall Bother Connecticut Residents (May 28, 1998). The Hartford Courant reports that residents living near Barry Square in Hartford, Connecticut are criticizing the Webster Theater music club for problems ranging from noise to litter to fist-fights. At a meeting of the Barry Square Revitalization Committee held last week, many of the 80 residents who attended asked or demanded that something be done about the concert-goers.

New Development Brings Loss of Peace and Quiet Once Enjoyed in New West County, Colorado (May 27, 1998). The Idaho Statesman published an editorial from Don Olsen contemplating the noise of crowing roosters, prairie dogs and the aspirations of subdivision developers in New West County, Colorado.

British Residents Oppose Day Nursery in their Neighborhood (May 26, 1998). The Sentinel reports that residents living near the site a proposed new 40-child day nursery in Newcastle, England are opposing the development. Residents say that traffic will increase and the peace and quiet they have in their backyards will disappear. The article notes that the Newcastle Borough Council will consider the application at an undetermined date.

Canadian Residents and Officials Protest for a Decade About Illegal Airfield, Without Resolution (May 26, 1998). The Vancouver Sun reports that residents and officials in Surrey, British Columbia have been fighting to have the Airflow Ultralight Aviation airfield in the 4900 block of King George Highway shut down for a decade, without result. The article explains that the airfield owner has never had a business license and the land has never had proper zoning for an airfield since opening in 1981, but local politicians refuse to enforce a city zoning bylaw and shut down the airfield. Now, the article says, it may be too late for the city to get rid of the airfield because officials have allowed it to operate for so long. In the latest development, the Surrey City Council last week again postponed a decision on the airfield.

Pennsylvania Residents Group Opposes Wal-Mart Superstore (May 26, 1998). The Morning Call reports that residents in Lower Macungie Township, Pennsylvania have formed a coalition to oppose a 203,750-square-foot Wal-Mart superstore and three outbuildings proposed for a site adjacent to Hamilton Boulevard and Lower Macungie Road. Residents are opposed to the development because of the noise and traffic it will create, and because of the large scale of the project. The article says that residents and the developer will square off tonight at a Planning Commission meeting at which each side will get time to present their case.

Residents Weigh in on Noise From California's Van Nuys Airport (May 24, 1998). The Los Angeles Times printed the following letters-to-the-editor from George Jerome, chair of the Van Nuys Citizens Advisory Council, and Anne Carver, co-chair of the airport committee of the Sherman Oaks Homeowners Association, regarding noise from the Van Nuys (California) Airport:

Texas City Officials Argue With Nuns Over Erecting a Noise Wall and the Purchase Price for Land (May 23, 1998). The Fort Worth Star-Telegram reports that city officials in Arlington, Texas are arguing with nuns at the Carmel of the Holy Trinity monastery over the price of some land the city wants to buy from the nuns to expand a street. In addition, the nuns want the city to build a noise wall to protect their property from increased traffic noise, but city officials won't agree to do so. The article notes that negotiations continue, but the city also filed documents this week to initiate an eminent domain hearing, in which court-appointed commissioners would determine the fair market value of the property.

Cargo Companies at Mather Airport Oppose Nearby Development (May 22, 1998). The Sacramento Business Journal reports cargo companies at Sacramento's Mather Airport fear if new development is allowed closer to the facility, it will be the end of the new hub.

Missouri Zoning Commission Denies Expansion of Children's Center, Noise and Other Concerns (May 21, 1998). The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports the Creve Coeur, Missouri, Planning and Zoning Commission rejected the expansion plan of the Ranken Jordan Children's Rehabilitation Center. Citizens' objections ranged from the center's plan to use aluminum siding to concerns about noise.

Nevada County Commission Delays Decision on New Noise Guidelines for Residents Near Airport (May 21, 1998). The Las Vegas Review-Journal reports that the Clark County (Nevada) Commission on Wednesday postponed a decision about whether to adopt new noise guidelines for homes and businesses near McCarran International Airport. The guidelines would adopt a new map that shows noise levels around the airport. Many of the residents and merchants that live in the proposed 60-decibel zone are angry at the proposal, believing it would lower their property values.

Effective Buffer Zones Between Commercial and Residential Areas Critical in Olathe, Kansas (May 20, 1998). The Kansas City Star published an editorial about city officials response to problems plaguing Kansas' Olathe Station. It is the editor's opinion that stronger rules for development are needed to prevent future difficulties with noise and lighting between commercial and residential districts.

Georgia Residents Oppose Metal Recycler Fearing Noise (May 20, 1998). The Atlanta Journal reports that despite outraged neighbors, planning commissioners in Gwinnett County, Georgia, approved the building of a metal recycler.

Calif. Residents Write Letters in Protest of El Toro Airport (May 17, 1998). The Los Angeles Times published the following letters to the editor about an op-ed article the paper published by former mayor of Newport Beach, Clarence Turner, and his opinions on the controversial El Toro Airport. The first letter is from Larry Agran of Irvine, California:

Go-Cart Track Upsets Residents in Louisiana Subdivision (May 16, 1998). The Times-Picayune reports a proposed go-cart track at Mandeville, Louisiana, miniature golf course has residents worried about noise.

Some Say Police Firing Range Incompatible with Quiet Use Redevelopment Plans for WA Army Post (May 15, 1998). The Columbian of Vancouver, Washington, reports Clark County commissioners decided Thursday that a redevelopment plan for a former Army post should include police firing ranges, much to the dismay of nearby residents.

Conn. Recreation Area Temporarily Closed Due to Uncontrolled Noise, Litter, and Parking (May 14, 1998). The Hartford Courant reports Southington, Connecticut, officials have temporarily closed a newly opened recreation area while they work out a plan to control parking, noise and litter.

Fearing Ground Noise Impact, Residents Ask Minneapolis-St. Paul Airport for Redevelopment Money for Mitigation (May 14, 1998). The Star Tribune reports Richfield residents and officials pleaded with airport officials Wednesday to protect their city from the negative effects of the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport expansion.

Illinois Town Seeks to Clear Up Vagueness in Noise & Entertainment Zoning Rules (May 14, 1998). The Chicago Daily Herald reports in an effort to clarify rules that govern licensed entertainment establishments, officials in Schaumburg, Illinois, proposed changes to sections of the village's zoning code that regulates entertainment and noise.

Sante Fe Business Can Keep Live Music; Must Follow City's Noise Ordinance (May 14, 1998). The Santa Fe New Mexican reports an agreement between the Santa Fe City Council and a local business means the lounge will continue to offer live amplified music, but hours for live performances will be limited.

Second Hearing Scheduled for Controversial Maine Motocross Track (May 13, 1998). The Central Maine Morning Sentinel reports a new date for a hearing has been set to decide on a controversial proposal to build a motocross track in Benton, Maine.

West Chicago Debates Railport Proposal: Lists Noise and Traffic Concerns (May 13, 1998). The Chicago Daily Herald reports West Chicago city officials say they need more information and more convincing before they can agree to the "railport" being proposed by Union Pacific Railroad.

Board Orders RI Gun Club to Conduct More Sound Tests (May 5, 1998). The Providence Journal-Bulletin reports the West Greenwich, Rhode Island Planning Board last night rejected noise tests performed by a gun club seeking a special-use permit to relocate. The Planning Board requested further noise tests as well as a second traffic study.

Land Purchase by Boca Airport Could Create Noise Buffer Zone (May 2, 1998). The Palm Beach Post reports the Boca Raton Airport is trying to buy property close once planned for residential development to provide a noise buffer between the airport and nearby neighborhoods.

Noise Impact Study May Result in Airport Buying Homes Affected by FedEx Hub (Apr. 30, 1998). The News & Record of Greensboro, North Carolina, reports that because the new FedEx hub and a third runway are expected to alter the high- noise areas around the Piedmont Triad International Airport, the Airport Authority may purchase a number of homes.

NY Residents Say Noise and Fumes Accompany Go-Cart Track (Apr. 29, 1998). The Times Union of Albany, New York, reports an angry crowd of Turf Community Park residents Tuesday night protested a proposed go-cart tract and urged the Town Board to side with them.

North Carolina Residents Concerned about Night-Time Noise from Fedex Hub (Apr. 29, 1998). The News & Record reports leaders in the Greensboro, North Carolina, area are asking for more details about noise from the proposed FedEx cargo hub at the Piedmont Triad Airport.

Activists in Newport Beach, California Wield Power in El Toro Airport Fight (Apr. 26, 1998). The Los Angeles Times reports that Newport Beach residents -- who fought the expansion of John Wayne Airport in the 1970s -- are worried that if the proposed El Toro Airport isn't built, increases in air traffic will occur at John Wayne since expansion limits are scheduled to end in 2005. As a result, residents there have become fierce proponents for the El Toro Airport, often opposing residents in the south of Orange County who worry they will be negatively impacted by El Toro. In addition to past experience, Newport Beach residents tend to have more money and political clout than south county residents.

Canadian Resident Considers Launching Petition Opposing Second Runway at Calgary Airport (Apr. 25, 1998). The Calgary Herald reports that the Calgary (Canada) Airport Authority voted Wednesday that a study be conducted to look at the feasibility of building a second north-south runway at Calgary International Airport to deal with increasing air traffic. In response, Fred Waterman, a Castleridge resident, said he may launch a petition drive opposing construction of the runway.

Colorado Residents Opposed to Proposed Rock Quarry (Apr. 21, 1998). The Denver Post reports that residents in Jefferson County, Colorado are opposed to a proposed quarry at a site in Coal Creek Canyon that would mine up to 70 rail cars of rock a day. Residents from Crescent Park, a subdivision to the west of the quarry site, and Plainview, a rural community to the east, say their homes will be filled with noise and dust, and their wells will dry up if the quarry is built. Residents will meet tonight representatives of the quarry company to discuss the proposal.

Minnesota City Near Airport Proposes Redevelopment Plan to Mitigate Noise from New Runway (Apr. 21, 1998). The Star Tribune reports that city officials in Richfield, Minnesota are proposing a $200 million redevelopment plan to mitigate ground noise that is expected from a new north-south runway at the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport. The redevelopment plan would destroy 1,000 homes and apartments near Cedar Avenue South and replace them with bigger buildings that would insulate against jet noise. The article notes that city officials are trying to convince the Metropolitan Airports Commission (MAC) to pay for the plan. Meanwhile, the article says, about 50 residents attended a MAC meeting Monday hoping to discuss the matter with commissioners. But they left the meeting in anger, the article reports, after only one resident was allowed to address the Commission.

Connecticut Residents Object to Skeet Shooting Proposal (Apr. 16, 1998). The Hartford Courant reports that about 15 angry residents in Durham, Connecticut turned out for a planning and zoning commission hearing Wednesday night to oppose a proposal by the Durham Rod and Gun Club to allow skeet shooting in a farm residential zone. The commission decided to continue the public hearing at its May 6 meeting.

Residents Near McCarran Airport Object to Their Homes on New Noise Contour Map (Apr. 15, 1998). The Las Vegas Review-Journal reports some Spring Valley residents are angry their homes could be included in the updated McCarran International Airport Environs Overlay District Maps, possibly classifying their homes as being in a high aircraft noise area.

Appeals Board in Massachusetts Town Rejects Request for 30 Outside Dog Kennel Runs (Apr. 13, 1998). The Patriot Ledger reports that the appeals board in Cohasset, Massachusetts unanimously rejected a request Friday by John and Christine Millar of Cedar Street to build 30 dog runs on the outside of their kennel. The board rejected the request because of the noise factor, and because it would bring the building 10 feet closer to the lot line, a violation of the zoning bylaw.

With Expansion, Santa Paula Considers Noise, Safety and Open Space (Apr. 12, 1998). The Ventura County Star reports the Santa Paula City Council will consider whether to expand as it considers final approval for a general plan update on Monday. Besides setting policy for land use, the general plan covers noise, conservation, safety, and open space.

Detractors of Maryland Race Track Cite Noise and Traffic Concerns (Apr. 10, 1998). The Capital reports developers of a 54,800-seat race track in Pasadena met with the public again last night, hoping to amass support for the proposal.

Albany, New York Considers Zoning Change to Allow Controversial Go-cart Track (Apr. 9, 1998). The Times Union reports the town board will hold a public hearing later this month to consider a zoning change that would allow a controversial go-cart track at a local driving range.

El Toro Airport Neighbors in Los Angeles, California Speak Out Against Anticipated International Airport Noise (Apr. 8, 1998). The Los Angeles Times interviews several residents that say aircraft noise from the proposed El Toro Airport will be unacceptable.

Residents of Future Florida Community Notified about Noise from Bartow Airport (Apr. 7, 1998). The Ledger reports officials representing Florida's Bartow Municipal Airport and those from the nearby Old Florida Plantation said they've reached an agreement on informing residents at the prospective community about noise from overflying aircraft.

The City of Sante Fe Seeks to Put a Stop to NightClub Noise. (Apr. 7, 1998). The Albuquerque Journal reports that city officials of Sante Fe, New Mexico have been attempting for over a year to put a stop to the noise from a local nightclub.

Residents Frustrated with Absence of Funding for Noise Barrier in Annapolis, Maryland (Apr. 3, 1998). The Capitol reports that residents in Annapolis, Maryland are complaining of dangerous noise levels coming from Route 50 just east of the Severn River. The county rushed through zoning changes earlier this year to qualify for the money that would pay for walls, but the State Highway Administration is not planning to pay for the walls for another three to five years.

Wal-Mart Told to Keep Noise Down by Planning Commission in Lake Zurich, Illinois (Apr. 3, 1998). The Chicago Daily Herald reports that the planning commission in Lake Zurich, Illinois wants Wal-Mart to reduce truck and other noise in return for their approved expansion of the store.

Kennels in Wales Approved Without Conditions Despite Residents' Noise Fears (Apr. 1, 1998). The South Wales Evening Post reports a Swansea farm has been given approval to build kennels despite fears about noise nuisance.

Missouri Quarry Wants to Expand, But Planning and Zoning Commission Recommends Rejection of Rezoning Request (Apr. 1, 1998). The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports that the Planning and Zoning Commission in St. Charles, Missouri has recommended that the City Council reject a re-zoning request by LaFarge Corporation for the St. Charles Quarry. The company wants to re-zone a 38-acre tract of land southwest of Friedens Road and west of its intersection with South River Road to expand its quarry operation. The land currently is zoned "limited industrial," and the company is asking that it be re-zoned to "general industrial." This would allow the quarry to expand closer to the residential areas that already surround it on three sides. But residents who live nearby objected to the proposed change, saying the quarry company already doesn't do enough to control dust, noise, vibrations, traffic, and debris.

Arizona Airport Delays Defining Noise Boundary Area (Mar. 27, 1998). The Arizona Republic reports that the Williams Gateway Authority, which governs the Williams Gateway Airport near Mesa, Arizona, tabled a proposal to define an "Airport Influence Area" that would warn prospective buyers about airport noise. Authority officials said they were uncertain whether the proposed area's boundary's were too large for the type of aircraft expected to operate at the airport, and decided to wait till at least the beginning of 1999 to define boundaries, when airport officials will have updated the airport's 5-year master plan.

Developer Claims FedEx Distribution Center Won't Increase Air Traffic at Wisconsin Airport (Mar. 26, 1998). The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reports that the Planning Commission in Waukesha, Wisconsin approved plans Wednesday for a 90,000-square-foot Federal Express distribution center near Crites Field. The facility will be the largest Federal Express facility in the Milwaukee area, the article says. According to the developer, the distribution center will not immediately increase air traffic at the county airport, but there is not telling what could happen in the future. Meanwhile, residents have complained to county officials recently that aircraft noise has increased around the airport.

Noise Boundaries to be Considered for Arizona Airport (Mar. 26, 1998). The Arizona Republic reports that the Williams Gateway Airport Authority, which governs the Williams Gateway Airport near Mesa, Arizona, will consider a proposal this afternoon to place an Airport Influence Area around the airport to warn prospective buyers about airport noise. If the authority embraces the proposal, the airport will be the first in the state to create Airport Influence Area since the state Legislature granted the right in 1997, although some airports have created similar boundaries through zoning, the article says.

Meetings Set in Las Vegas Area to Show New Boundaries on Airport Noise Contour Maps (Mar. 25, 1998). The Las Vegas Review-Journal reports that the Clark County (Nevada) departments of aviation and comprehensive planning are holding a series of meetings to discuss the revised noise contour maps for the McCarran International Airport. The maps show how noise levels have affected neighborhoods around the airport during the last seven years. The Spring Valley Town Board will recommend the Clark County Commissioners approve or deny the noise contour map at a meeting Monday. Commissioners are expected to take up the matter on April 22.

Washington County Judge Allows Resident to Reopen Dog Shelter Despite Neighbors Protests (Mar. 25, 1998). The Spokesman-Review reports that Superior Court Judge Larry Kristianson in Stevens County, Washington ruled this week after hearing testimony from a sound engineer that Joyce Tasker can reopen her Dog Patch animal shelter on her semi-rural property in Colville. The judge ruled that a new $50,000 sound-baffling dog run eliminates the noise nuisance at the shelter. The judge's order is expected to be signed this week.

Businesses in Florida Protest Noise Ordinance (Mar. 21, 1998). The Tampa Tribune reports that some Ybor City, Florida, business owners in the Latin Quarter say a proposed citywide noise ordinance would put them out of business.

California Residents Object to a Proposed YMCA in Their Neighborhood (Mar. 19, 1998). The Orange County Register reports that more than 300 residents attended a meeting last week in Placentia, California to protest the construction of a YMCA proposed for a vacant lot at the Placentia United Methodist Church. Residents said they were worried about the noise the YMCA would bring. Before the proposal could be built, the article notes, it must be approved by the Planning Commission and City Council.

Florida Residents Prefer Peace and Quiet to Softball in their Neighborhood (Mar. 19, 1998). The Press Journal of Vero Beach, Florida, reports that residents strongly object to a proposed softball complex in their neighborhood. They predict the complex will bring noise and traffic to their quiet neighborhood.

Virginia Quarry gets Expanded Hours, Promises Noise Abatement Plan (Mar. 19, 1998). The Richmond Times Dispatch reports that quarry operator Martin Marietta Aggregates promised to be a good neighbor in return for expanded hours of operation.

Glendale Buys Land as Noise Buffer between Airport and Residences (Mar. 18, 1998). The Arizona Republic reports that Glendale officials will purchase a large tract of land south of Glendale Municipal Airport to prevent developers from building too close to the airport.

Cincinnati Airport Brings Jobs, But Not Without Noise and Land Costs in Boone County (Mar. 16, 1998). The Cincinnati Enquirer reports Boone County, Kentucky, residents know the price for the prosperity brought by the Cincinnati - Northern Kentucky International Airport. Among the prices paid: jet aircraft noise, loss of land and homes, and now, the airport wants to close a section of road. Residents have objected to this last request.

Noise Violations All in the Family in Two Massachusetts Asphalt Plants (Mar. 14, 1998). The Telegram & Gazette of Worcester, Massachusetts, reports Building Inspector James J. Ford Sr. has informed the P.J. Keating Co., a blacktop plant, that it is in violation of town bylaws governing noise from blasting and truck traffic.

Memphis Go Kart Track Under Consideration; Noise Concerns (Mar. 12, 1998). The Commercial Appeal reports a Memphis amusement business has applied for a special use permit to operative an outdoor Go Kart track near Perkins. The request was put on hold last month for further study following concerns about how noise from the motors might affect nearby businesses and homes.

Michigan Residents Object to Concrete Crushing in Neighborhood (Mar. 12, 1998). The Grand Rapids Press reports Alpine Township residents will have to wait for a decision from the Planning Commission on a special use permit for an excavating company to crush concrete and process topsoil in their neighborhood.

Texas Residents Oppose Concrete Plant (Mar. 11, 1998). The Dallas Morning News reports the Sachse City Council, prompted by residents' opposition to a proposed concrete batch plant, will host public hearings on the issue before voting to revise a zoning decision made in January.

Albuquerque Residents Concerned about Noise, Pollution, Danger from News Helicopters (Mar. 5, 1998). The Albuquerque Journal reports residents of an Albuquerque, New Mexico, neighborhood claim they've lost their peace and quiet to television-news helicopters that frequently fly over their homes.

Florida Residents Ban All-Night Dance Festivals (Mar. 4, 1998). The Ledger of Lakeland, Florida, reports a new law placing restrictions on outdoor concerts in Polk County was approved recently after last year's all-night dance festival outraged neighbors.

Coalition Questions New Housing in Potential Flight Paths of Luke AFB (Mar. 4, 1998). The Arizona Republic reports that developers plans to build up to 2,200 residences in El Mirage, Arizona, have been put on hold because it's unclear whether the properties are in the flight path of planes from Luke Air Force Base.

Missouri Residents Meet with Airport Authority about Noise Grievances (Mar. 3, 1998). The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports of a meeting that took place last week between the St. Louis Airport Authority and area residents with noise grievances. The article details residents' concerns and an airport representative's responses.

Residential Development Proposed Near Arizona Air Force Base (Mar. 2, 1998). The Arizona Republic reports that a residential development with up to 1,500 homes is being proposed in Surprise, Arizona, near the Luke Air Force Base. If built, the homes would be on the fringe of the air force base noise contour area in which the average noise exceeds 65 decibels, an area where residential developments are discouraged.

Residential Suburban Growth in Maryland Pits Homeowners Against Gravel Mine Owners (Mar. 1, 1998). The Washington Post reports that residents in Charles County, Maryland are lobbying for restrictions on the entrenched gravel mining industry in the county. The article says that as homes increasingly spread across formerly rural land, homeowners' interests are at odds with the mining industry's practice of routinely strip mining for gravel.

Some Southern California Airport Expansions Face Opposition, While Others Do Not (Mar. 1, 1998). The Los Angeles Times reports that air traffic demand in Southern California is expected to double in the next 15 years, and pressure to expand Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and open El Toro's former military airport for commercial use is mounting. Residents near both airport sites are fighting that pressure. Some say that expansion should happen at March Air Force Base and Palmdale Airport instead; both sites are north of Los Angeles. The article discusses the specific problems at each airport that expansion would cause.

Letters to the Editor Regarding Burbank Airport in California (Feb. 28, 1998). The Los Angeles Times published two letters about the controversial expansion at the Burbank Airport. One letter is from Peter Kirsch, Special Counsel to Burbank on Airport Affairs. The other letter is from Thomas E. Greer, Executive Director of Burbank-Glendale-Pasadena Airport Authority.

New Hampshire Town Rejects Racetrack Proposal (Feb. 27, 1998). The Union Leader reports that the city zoning board in Franklin, New Hampshire unanimously turned down a developer's request for a special exception to build a race track. The board's decision last night was greeted by applause from the standing-room-only crowd at Franklin City Hall, the article notes.

Pennsylvania City Approves Concrete Recycling Plant Despite Neighbors Protests (Feb. 27, 1998). The Morning Call reports that the Bethlehem (Pennsylvania) Zoning Hearing Board granted a special exception Wednesday to permit a concrete recycling plant, despite neighbors' concerns about traffic, noise, and dust. The project must also be approved by the city Planning Commission, the article notes.

Maine City Tries to Entice Airline to Locate Headquarters There (Feb. 26, 1998). The Portland Press Herald reports that Maine state and local officials are working on a plan to allow Business Express Airlines to locate its headquarters and maintenance facilities near the Portland International Jetport. Last fall, the city said there wasn't enough room for the airline to locate at the 636-acre airport, but the latest plan would allow the airline to locate on state-owned land near the Maine Youth Center, a juvenile detention center.

Proposed Ampitheater In New Mexico On Hold (Feb. 20, 1998). The Albuquerque Journal reports that a regional ampitheater in Bernalillo County, New Mexico

California Community Debates Little League Fields (Feb. 19, 1998). The Orange County Register reports that little league baseball fields are the center of controversy in Newport Beach, California. Area residents say fields will bring greater traffic and noise.

Drag Racing Proposed In Fall River Massachusetts (Feb. 18, 1998). The Providence Journal-Bulletin reports two racing enthusiasts want to build a drag strip at the former municipal airport in Fall River, Massachusetts.

Pennsylvania Community Rejects Playground (Feb. 18, 1998). The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports that neighbors in Carnegie, Pennsylvania are fighting a playground they say would bring noise to the community.

Oklahoma Planning Commission Rejects Dairy Parking Lot Project After Residents Object (Feb. 16, 1998). The Daily Oklahoman reports that the Planning Commission in Norman, Oklahoma voted 4-3 to recommend that a proposed parking lot at the Hiland Dairy be rejected. The vote came after residents near the dairy objected that the plan would increase the traffic, noise, and air pollution around the facility. The Norman City Council has the final say on the proposed project.

Indiana Planning Commission Approves Subdivision Near Airport's Flight Path (Feb. 13, 1998). The Indianapolis News reports the Hendricks County Area Plan Commission this week unanimously approved plans for a small subdivision in Danville, Indiana close to the flight path and noise of airplanes from the Indianapolis International Airport. The developer said he would build the homes with extra soundproofing and would warn buyers about the potential jet noise.

Expansion Plan at Los Angeles Universal Studios Drags On (Feb. 12, 1998). The Los Angeles Times reports that the first round of hearings regarding Universal Studios proposed expansion in Los Angeles, California are drawing to completion. The Regional Planning Commission delayed formal completion, and residents opposed to the expansion were pleased.

Kansas City Residents Want Park, Not Noisy Industry (Jan. 22, 1998). The Kansas City Star reports that residents of Coleman Highlands in Kansas City, Missouri, oppose a developer's plans to build a business in their quiet neighborhood. Concern about heavy traffic, noise, pollution and decreasing property values have prompted the group to ask the city to condemn the developer's property and turn it into a park.

WA Residents Say Mine Noise and Traffic Incompatible with Quality of Life (Jan. 22, 1998). The Spokesman-Review of Spokane, Washington, reports that a dozen Green Bluff residents argued Friday against a Spokane County Division of Engineering proposal to expand a gravel mine and crushing operation near their homes.

CA Residents Say Too Much Noise Coming from Fantasy Island Resort (Jan. 21, 1998). The Daily News of Los Angeles reports Triunfo Canyon, California, zoning laws are being reviewed after residents complained of late night noise from a banquet facility.

Baltimore Area Residents Fight Auto Speedway Proposal (Jan. 20, 1998). The Washington Post reports that homeowners in Anne Arundel, Maryland are fighting a proposal to build a $100 million auto speedway in their area.

East Hartford Mayor Backs Theme Park; Residents Concerned about Noise and Traffic (Jan. 20, 1998). The Hartford Courant reports that the mayor and city officials of East Hartford, Connecticut, will recommend a giant amusement park for their town.

Noise and Lead from Gun Clubs Incompatible with Urban Growth Decides Town in British Columbia (Jan. 20, 1998). The Vancouver Sun reports that the city council of Burnaby, British Columbia, ordered three Burnaby Mountain gun ranges to close by the end of September.

Wary Residents in Arundel Will Fight Speedway (Jan. 20, 1998). The Washington Post reports that citizens of Anne Arundel County, Maryland, are fighting a proposal to build a $100 million auto speedway near Laurel.

Wolfeboro Modifies Decision on Large Concert Tent Citing Noise and Traffic (Jan. 20, 1998). The Union Leader reports the Wolfeboro Massachusetts Planning Board recently limited the size of a an acoustic concert tent at Great Waters Music Festival citing noise, traffic, and parking concerns as well as the visual impact of the 810-person capacity tent and related equipment.

Idaho Sprint Racers Request Permit for New Course after Noise Complaints (Jan. 19, 1998). The Lewiston Morning Tribune of Lewiston, Idaho, reports that Chapter One Racing is requesting a permit to build a new boat track after noise complaints from a few residents along the Snake River.

St. Louis Struggles With Proposed Development (Jan. 19, 1998). St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports that St. Louis residents are in conflict over a proposed development in Highway 141. Some residents say the proposed food shop car wash and oil change center is the best sale they can make for their land. Others fear the noise and traffic will change the residential nature of the area, and lower the surrounding land values.

Political Push for Maryland Racetrack Unlikely in Election Year (Jan. 18, 1998). The Baltimore Sun recently published an editorial about the questionable future of a 54,000-seat auto racetrack in Anne Arundel County, Maryland. Convincing officials in an election year that auto racing should be part of their county's future may be difficult.

Virginia Residents Sue Marina to Stop Expansion Citing Noise, Danger, and Damage (Jan. 18, 1998). The Roanoke Times & World News reports that residents are opposed to a developer's plan to expand a marina along Becky's Creek in Virginia. Residents are concerned about dock damage and noise. A number of lawsuits on both sides have been filed.

Kennel Approved Despite Protest (Jan. 16, 1998). The Northern Echo reports that Darlington officials recently approved a controversial kennel operation. While area residents protested that noise and other nuisances from the dogs were unacceptable, the Darlington Councillors decided that a kennel was a permissible use of the rural landscape.

Maryland Community Zones Planned Employment Center (Jan. 16, 1998). The Baltimore Sun reports that the area Planning Board is developing a plan for a planned employment center. Area residents seek a development plan that will minimize noise and other environmental pollution.

A California Superior Court ruling requiring further analysis of El Toro Airport impacts won't stop planning by Orange county: an interview with El Toro Master Development Program manager Courtney Wiercioch. (Jan. 15, 1998). The Irvine Citizen interviewed Courtney Wiercioch, Orange County, California's program manager for the El Toro Airport Master Development Program. The Citizen talked with Wiercioch concerning San Diego Superior Court Judge Judith McConnell's ruling last week that major revisions must be made to the county's environmental analysis of El Toro airport noise, traffic and passenger demand. The article reports that the ruling requires the county to make additional comparisons based on existing or known conditions, such as road improvements now funded or in place. Wiercioch said that the ruling is not viewed as a major setback and will not stop base-reuse planning.

Neighbors of Proposed In-Home Babysitting Service in Salem, Virginia Worried About Increased Noise and Traffic (Jan. 15, 1998). The Roanoke Times reports that a couple's request to open an in-home babysitting service on Bainbridge Street in Salem, Virginia has met with considerable opposition from their neighbors. Neighbors complained about increased noise, traffic, and decreased property values at a recent Salem Planning Commission hearing concerning the special use permit.

New Jersey Shoreline Residents Oppose Parking Lot Proposal (Jan. 15, 1998). The Asbury Park Press reports that residents on the New Jersey Shore are fighting a zoning change that would allow a public parking lot in a residential area. Residents oppose the change because the lot would attract traffic and noise and encourage others to destroy the residential nature of the area.

Mining Company Incompatible with Tennessee Residential Area (Jan. 14, 1998). The Knoxville News-Sentinel reports that a surface-mining operation has been deemed incompatible with the Millertown Pike area. Planning commissioners were not wooed by company's offer to make road improvements.

Proposed Gravel Pit in Star, Idaho to be voted on by Ada County Commission (Jan. 14, 1998). The Idaho Statesman reports that the Ada County Commission will have the final say Thursday on an application for a gravel pit near Star, Idaho. According to the article, the proposed operation would be on about 30 acres of the 600-acre Phillips Bros. Cattle Co. ranch south of the Star city limits. It would remove close to 1 million cubic yards of gravel in the next 10 years. The Ada County Planning and Zoning Commission denied the application for the gravel pit in July 1997, largely because of a public outcry against the project.

Neighbors Afraid Proposed Senior Community Will Quiet Their Noisy Family Neighborhood (Jan. 13, 1998). The Press-Enterprise reports that while developers of a proposed senior citizen community in Beaumont, California work to divert neighbors' traffic concerns, others wonder if the senior residents would curb family activities in the north side of the city. The Marshall Creek housing project would sit in the middle of one of the most family-oriented sections of the city, within earshot of Beaumont High School, Mountain View Junior High and an elementary school. And the Beaumont Sports Park is under construction. Opponents fear that if enough complaints come from the 500-or-so residents expected there, the sports park would be forced to close early and noise from the high school football games would be limited.

Road to Be Moved Closer to Mobile Home Park in Yucaipa, California Despite Protests (Jan. 13, 1998). The Press-Enterprise reports that despite protests, the Yucaipa, California City Council voted Monday to move Sunnyside Drive to within 22 feet of Lakeview Mobile Estates to make way for the construction of Community Park along Oak Glen Road in Yucaipa. Mobile home residents, angry that the heavily traveled road will be moved, presented a petition with more than 100 signatures and spoke out against the proposal at Monday's city council meeting.

Cerritos, California Residents Concerned About Increased Noise, Traffic, and Lighting From Proposed Driving Range (Jan. 10, 1998). The Los Angeles Times reported that residents near Cerritos College in Cerritos, California are opposing a proposed golf driving range on the grounds that it will create noise, traffic, and lighting problems.

Rezoning Dispute in Spokane, Washington (Jan. 8, 1998). The Spokesman-Review reports that developers and residents disagree over the appropriate use of a 40 acre piece of land in Spokane, Washington. Developers are asking the county hearing examiner to rezone the land in north Spokane to allow a large shopping center with Wal-Mart as its centerpiece. But residents, who will live next door to the 40 acres of shopping and parking, argue that a massive shopping center would make a bad neighbor.

Monks and Environmental Groups in Trabuco Canyon, California Sue Over Proposed Development (Jan. 8, 1998). The Orange County Register reports that the Norbertine monks of Trabuco Canyon, California have filed a lawsuit to stop the development of a shopping center that they say would threaten their sacred lifestyle. The monks fear that traffic noise generated by the proposed 12-acre Live Oak Plaza, which would include a gas station and restaurant, would interrupt their prayers and services. They also say the glare would make it difficult to sleep.

Both Sides of El Toro Airport Debate Claim Victory Over California Judge's Ruling (Jan. 8, 1998). Los Angeles Times reported that in a decision that made both sides of the debate happy, a Superior Court judge ruled that Orange County must fix its environmental review of its proposed commercial airport at El Toro Marine Base, but it doesn't have to redo the entire thing.

Dispute Between Neighbors and Auto Body Shop Goes Unresolved (Jan. 7, 1998). The Patriot Ledger reports that a year-long dispute between residents and an auto body shop in Stoughton, Massachusetts went unresolved after a recent town selectman's meeting. At the meeting, selectmen told neighbors, who are opposed to the repair shop based on noise, fumes and aesthetic grounds, that they must take their complaints to the zoning board of appeals.

Neighbors Afraid Proposed Gas Station/Car Wash in Camarillo, California Will Bring More Traffic and Noise (Jan. 5, 1998). The Ventura County Star reports that American Oil Co. wants to build a gasoline station and car wash in Camarillo, California, but neighbors fear the project will increase traffic and create noise.

Kentucky Residents Halt Airport Relocation Plan (Jan. 1, 1998). The Courier-Journal reports that an expected $20 million from the state to relocate neighbors of Louisville International Airport to the Cedar Creek area in southern Jefferson County is in jeopardy.

California Car Wash Under Construction Despite Angry Neighbors (Dec. 21, 1997). The Fresno Bee reports that a commercial project that ignited protests from Woodward Park area residents in Fresno, California last year and sparked two lawsuits is under construction.

Maryland Speedway Project Woos County Officials (Dec. 20, 1997). The Washington Post reports that County Executive John G. Gary is behind a Speedway Project in Anne Arundel, Maryland.

Maine Recycling Facility Threatens Neighborhood With Greater Traffic And Noise (Dec. 19, 1997). The Kennebec Journal reports that a proposed tire recycling and truck maintenance facility in Hallowell Maine concerns area residents. Neighbors of the proposed facility worry about potential traffic and noise.

Virginia Sawmill Expansion Opposed By Neighbors (Dec. 19, 1997). The Roanoke Times & World News reports that the proposed expansion of a Lumber Mill in Christiansburg Virginia has citizens alarmed. Neighbors worry about added noise and other environmental pollution.

Louisiana Residents Oppose Grocery Store (Dec. 18, 1997). The Times-Picayune reports that residents in Luling, Louisiana oppose a proposal for a new Winn-Dixie market. Residents say the secondary entrance to the market will cause noise pollution and safety hazards.

Maryland Communities Struggle Over Proposed Racetrack (Dec. 18, 1997). The Washington Post reports that neighborhood activists in Anne Arundel County, Maryland find themselves staring at a $100 million, 100,000-seat auto racing track and entertainment center that would host National Association of Stock Car Auto Racing events.

New Zealand Court Affirms Rights Of Gun Clubs (Dec. 18, 1997). The Evening Standard reports that a New Zealand court recently affirmed the rights of a local gun club.

Orchard Owners Restricted On Methods To Frighten Birds (Dec. 18, 1997). The Indianapolis News reports that an apple orchard and farm market will be allowed to expand after the Zoning Board restricted the use of noise devices to frighten birds.

Tennessee Kennel's Permit Revoked For Noise (Dec. 18, 1997). The Commercial Appeal reports that a neighborhood kennel in Tennessee recently had its permit revoked due to noise pollution.

Florida City Prepares Zoning Ordinances For Outdoor Dining (Dec. 17, 1997). The Sarasota Herald-Tribune reports that sidewalk dining has become very popular in Sarasota, Florida, particularly on St. Armands Circle, prompting calls for stricter controls from nearby residents because of concerns about noise.

Florida Residents Prepare For New YMCA (Dec. 17, 1997). The Orlando Sentinel Tribune reports that county commissioners in Orlando, Florida voted to sign a 50-year lease with the Central Florida YMCA and contribute $1.9 million toward the new fitness center in Blanchard Park. Area residents worry about noise and are concerned over the loss of their park.

Industrial Barge Fleet Frightens Louisiana Neighbors (Dec. 17, 1997). The Times-Picayune reports that a proposed grain barge fleeting operation that would be moored on the Mississippi River just across the levee from Destrehan's Red Church subdivision in St. Charles, Louisiana is drawing heated opposition from neighborhood residents and St. Charles Parish Council members.

Florida Community Considers Auto Service Center Plans (Dec. 16, 1997). The St. Petersburg Times reports that Sun Toyota wants to build a larger parts and service center and an express lube service in New Port Richey, Florida. Some neighboring residents want to put a roadblock in those plans, saying it will bring more noise, traffic and runoff to their neighborhood.

Washington Community Negotiates With Native American Tribe On Ampitheater Proposal (Dec. 16, 1997). The News Tribune reports that King County is negotiating with the Muckleshoot Tribe over a 20,000-seat amphitheater the tribe is building on farmland near Auburn.

California Neighbors Concerned About Fairplex Entertainment Center Proposal (Dec. 15, 1997). The Business Press reports that a year-round entertainment complex proposed for the Pomona (California) Fairplex got a nod of approval from several city council members last week.

California's Oakland Airport Preparing to Expand (Dec. 12, 1997). The San Francisco Chronicle reports that the Oakland (California) International Airport will undergo a $600 million expansion intended to capture 50 percent more passengers within three years and to triple cargo traffic by 2010, port and city officials said yesterday.

Nebraska Ampitheater Plan Shelved (Dec. 12, 1997). The Omaha World-Herald reports that the fate of a proposed open-air amphitheater halfway between Omaha and Lincoln remained up in the air Thursday night after the Cass County Planning Commission chose to table the proposal.

Virginia Confronts Suburban Sprawl (Dec. 12, 1997). The Roanoke Times and World News reports that a lumber company expansion and the Brush Mountain subdivision case in Christianburg, Virginia show the limits of the law intended to contain suburban sprawl. The article says the two cases may be catalysts for change.

Plans Approved For Florida K-Mart (Dec. 12, 1997). The Sun Sentinel reports that a "Big Kmart" superstore was given final approval on Thursday and will be built at the northeast corner of Pines Boulevard and Dykes Road on the west side of Pembroke Pines, Florida.

Commercial Land Use in Pennsylvania Brings Noise (Dec. 12, 1997). The Morning Call reports in an editorial that a Wal-Mart store is planned at a 41-acre commercial site in Lower Macungie Township, Pennsylvania. Vexed residents have organized for a fight.

Two Nebraska Land Developments Vie For Commission's Approval (Dec. 12, 1997). The Omaha World-Herald reports that a debate over a proposed amphitheater between Omaha and Lincoln is shaping up to be a choice between the amphitheater complex or an expansion of the nearby Quarry Oaks Golf Course that would include single-family homes and townhomes.

California Residents Protest Proposed Road Relocation (Dec. 11, 1997). The Press Enterprise reports that residents of Lakeview Mobile Estates in San Bernadino County, California are angry about a new park that would cause a heavily traveled road to be moved to within 22 feet of their homes. They have collected more than 100 signatures on a petition and plan to protest at a Planning Commission meeting next week.

Washington Community Plans City's Vehicle Maintenance Complex (Dec. 11, 1997). The Spokesman-Review reports that an estimated 400 cars and trucks are expected to arrive at and depart from a proposed fleet maintenance complex in the Garry Park neighborhood of Spokane, Washington each morning, around the same time students are on their way to school. Neighbors voiced concerns about the noise, traffic and potential danger to school-children during a community meeting with city officials Tuesday.

Proposal for Go-Carts Upsets Rural Kansas Residents (Dec. 11, 1997). The Kansas City Star reports that the Leavenworth County Planning Commission and several county residents met last week to debate whether the county should grant a special-use permit for a go-cart track at Eisenhower Road and 20th Street Trafficway.

Neighbors Complain About New Grocery Store (Dec. 10, 1997). The Arizona Republic reports that the morning sun no longer shines on some homes in the Islands. The patio homes are in the shadow of a grocery store giant under construction to the east, and two neighborhood leaders are worrying about future noise and traffic.

Connecticut Gravel Company Appeals Decision Denying Permit (Dec. 9, 1997). The Hartford Courant reports that a gravel excavation company in Vernon, Connecticut has appealed a recent planning and zoning decision that denied it a permit to remove gravel from land near Route 83. The Commission denied the permit, saying the work would create dust and noise that would bother area residents.

British Haulage Facility Worries Neighbors Over Noise (Dec. 9, 1997). The Northern Echo reports that neighbors claim they could suffer from noise and pollution if a company wins permission to use agricultural land behind their homes in Leases Lane, at Leeming Bar, near Northallerton, England.

Missouri Community Weighs Zoning Requests That May Cause Noise Pollution (Dec. 8, 1997). The St. Louis Post Dispatch reports that Bridgeton (Missouri) City Council is considering two zoning requests, one from Dierbergs Markets and another from a church that wants to build an assisted-living center for the elderly. One major issue in the determination concerns the amount of noise pollution the proposals might produce.

New Jersey Town Fights Proposed Recycling Plant (Dec. 7, 1997). The Ashbury Park Press reports that Millstone Township, New Jersey residents and township officials are uniting to fight a proposed recycling plant.

Planners In New Mexico Consider Airport Noise In Decision About Proposed Development (Dec. 5, 1997). The Albuquerque Tribune reports that Albuquerque, New Mexico area officials are considering a proposal for an enormous development project on a vast tract of open mesa. Among the concerns for the project are the impact of jet noise from a nearby airport on the potential community.

California Recycling Center Closed For Noise Pollution (Dec. 4, 1997). The Los Angeles Times reports that Los Angeles' City Council will shut down a recycling center behind a supermarket because of noise issues.

California Judge Attempts to Resolve Dispute Between Wedding Retreat Center and Neighbors (Dec. 3, 1997). The Los Angeles Times reports that a hearing held by a state judge in California was intended to avoid a trail over legal arguments between a fancy retreat center in Triunfo Canyon and residents who say the resort causes noise and traffic problems.

Maine Residents Voice Concerns About Noise From Proposed Gas Station Expansion (Dec. 3, 1997). The Portland Press Herald reports that the Planning Board has approved Cumberland Farms' proposal to build a new store in Saco, Maine to replace its building on Route 1 and double the number of gas pumps from two to four. Area residents are concerned about the impacts that the expansion would have on the area including noise pollution at night.

Louisville Airport Officials Struggle to Relocate Residents Displaced by Noise from Airport Expansion (Dec. 1, 1997). The Courier-Journal reports that officials from the Regional Airport Authority of Louisville (Kentucky) and Jefferson County are considering building 450 homes on a site in southern Jefferson County, on Cedar Creek Road, in order to relocate residents displaced by noise from Louisville International Airport's reconfigured runway project. Altogether, 1,650 households are eligible to move in Minor Lane Heights, South Park View, Edgewood, and nearby areas. Governor Paul Patton said recently he'd be willing to use $20 million of the state's surplus to help the people move. However, the article reports, many residents already see problems in the relocation process.

Neighborhood Relocation Near Louisville Airport Leaves Residents Uncertain and Distrustful (Dec. 1, 1997). The Courier-Journal reports that the Edgewood neighborhood of Louisville, Kentucky has been designated a "relocation area" due to noise from the Louisville International Airport. As a result, the neighborhood is slowly being emptied, and the residents who are left wonder continually when they will leave and where they will go, the article says. The situation has left many residents uncertain, resigned, and distrustful, according to the article.

Rhode Island Town Considers Proposal for Auto Racetrack (Dec. 1, 1997). The Providence Journal-Bulletin reports that the final session of a public hearing regarding a zoning change that would bring an auto racetrack to Richmond, Rhode Island will take place tonight. The article notes that a noise expert has testified on behalf of the developers that noise from the racetrack will meet the town's noise limit.

Highway Move Considered for Arizona Town; Some Say it Would Reduce Traffic Noise (Nov. 30, 1997). The Fort Worth Star-Telegram reports that the Arizona Department of Transportation is considering moving part of U.S. 89 to go around Wickenburg, Arizona instead of through it, due to problems with congestion. However, the article says, some residents approve the plan, saying it will improve safety, noise and air pollution in the town, while others say the town's merchants will fail if no traffic is routed through their town.

Hong Kong Airport Set to Close; Merchants Predict Losses, But Property Agents Expect Boom in Housing Market in the Area (Nov. 30, 1997). The South China Morning Post reports that the Kai Tak Airport in Kowloon City, Hong Kong is set to close in 1998 when the new Chek Lap Kok Airport opens. The article says that some merchants near Kai Tak expect their businesses to hang on after the airport is gone, while others expect their businesses to fold. Meanwhile, property agents are gearing up for new residential housing in the area, which will be more popular when residents don't have to deal with aircraft noise.

Florida Residents Protest Proposal for Industrial Zone Near Their Homes (Nov. 29, 1997). The Tampa Tribune reports that residents in Thonotosassa near Tampa, Florida are protesting that allowing a property on U.S. 301 to be rezoned to allow commercial intensive uses could cause inappropriate development in an area that has much residential development. County commissioners, meanwhile, have asked the owner of the property for a site plan for the warehouse distribution facility proposed for the site, along with a request to rezone the property.

Residents Opposed to Baseball Stadium in Neighborhood; Noise, Bright Lights and Quality of Life Issues (Nov. 29, 1997). The Ventura County Star reports residents near Oxnard College are disputing a report released this week that says minor league baseball at the college would not have a significant impact on nearby neighborhoods. Residents are concerned about noise, pollution, and bright lights.

California Community Tries to Close Recycling Facility Due to Noise Complaints (Nov. 27, 1997). The Orange County Register reports that the La Palma (California) City Council is seeking to close the Mobile Recycling facility at 5420 La Palma Ave., the city's only recycling Center, largely due to noise pollution emitted from the Center.

Florida Residents Fight Proposed Sand-Mining Operation (Nov. 27, 1997). The Orlando Sentinel Tribune reports that mining company Tarmac America has plans to move a sand-mining operation in Clermont, Florida to a 321-acre parcel of land in south Lake County off Hartwood Marsh Road. Residents near the proposed site are gearing up to fight the plan, which they say will drain or taint water supplies, cause excessive noise, and disrupt the calm atmosphere of the rural neighborhood.

Judge Denies Bid for Bedrock Quarry in Maine, Upholding Town's Mining Ordinance (Nov. 27, 1997). The Portland Press Herald reports that a Maine Superior Court judge Tuesday denied a mining company's request to allow a bedrock mining operation in a rural neighborhood in Woolwich on Dana Mill Road. The decision upholds the town's mining ordinance, and comes after a decade-long battle to protect the 163-acre site.

Kentucky Residents Angry at Airport's Plan to Relocate Housing Development Due to Noise (Nov. 27, 1997). The Courier-Journal reports that a "truth rally" was held in Minor Lane Heights, Kentucky last Monday to discuss the frustration residents are experiencing with officials at the Louisville International Airport over plans to relocate more than 1,000 homes because of excessive airport noise. The meeting was attended by a crowd of about 500 people, the article says. This month, airport officials proposed building a relocation housing development, but residents still aren't all happy, according to the article.

Louisville Airport Authority Considers Plan to Create New Housing Development for Residents Displaced by Noise (Nov. 27, 1997). The Courier-Journal reports that the Regional Airport Authority of Louisville and Jefferson County (Kentucky) is considering purchasing 287 acres on Cedar Creek Road in order to build 450 homes for people displaced by noise from Louisville International Airport's reconfigured runways. Plans are to offer residents in 1,620 homes to option to move, the article says.

Louisville Airport Officials Face Criticism for Not Working With Residents on Relocation Project (Nov. 26, 1997). The Courier-Journal reports that Dave Armstrong, a Jefferson County (Kentucky) Judge-Executive, has written a strongly worded letter to officials at the Louisville International Airport criticizing them for angering residents of Minor Lane Heights over plans to relocate residents under the airport's flight paths. Armstrong said the engineer that residents have already worked with should be included in designing a new development for displaced homeowners. Armstrong's letter comes after Minor Lane Heights officials were angered last week after the Regional Airport Authority ignored their recommendation to hire Design Engineering for the preliminary work on the town or subdivision where residents may be relocated. Meanwhile, Monday night, 500 residents attended a "truth rally" where the railed against airport and county officials.

Kentucky Residents Unload their Anger at a "Truth Rally" on Airport Relocation Project (Nov. 25, 1997). The Courier-Journal reports that about 500 residents of Minor Lane Heights, Kentucky gathered last night at a "truth rally" to discuss the relocation project for residents in the flight path of jets from the Louisville International Airport. Officials told residents about plans to relocate residents a 287-acre subdivision on Cedar Creek Road. The residents accused officials from the Regional Airport Authority and Jefferson County of ignoring their input and dismissing their needs.

New Mexico Village Residents Oppose Expansion of Tortilla Factory, Citing Constant Noise from Coolers and Air Compressors (Nov. 25, 1997). The Albuquerque Journal reports that residents in the village of Los Ranchos, New Mexico are opposing the proposed expansion of the Albuquerque Tortilla Co., saying the constant noise from coolers and air compressors already is a nuisance. The tortilla factory is seeking a zone change from "commercial" to "special use" to operate a new warehouse.

California Neighbors Oppose Church Expansion, Citing More Noise and Traffic (Nov. 22, 1997). The Ventura County Star reports that neighbors of the NewHeart Foursquare Church in Simi Valley, California are opposing a proposed expansion of the church, saying it would create more noise and traffic and would block their view. Officials from the church presented the expansion plan to the Planning Commission Wednesday, but commissioners postponed action and asked church officials to work with neighbors and rethink their design.

Judge's Ruling on Building Rules for Homes Near New Zealand Airport Ends a Decade-Long Noise Fight (Nov. 22, 1997). The Dominion reports that a judge's ruling Thursday regarding building rules for new homes near the Wellington (New Zealand) airport ends a decade-long battle between airline and airport officials and residents. The article describes the long fight, focusing on the leader who organized residents and led a successful battle, Maxine Harris.

Manager of Louisville Airport Opposes Input from Public, Columnist Believes (Nov. 21, 1997). The Courier-Journal printed an editorial which argues that Robert Michael, the manager of the Louisville (Kentucky) International Airport, has badly misjudged two recent situations in which the public wanted input into the airport expansion project and were denied. A residents group asked for representation on the Regional Airport Authority board, and were opposed by Michael. And, after residents worked for two years with a design firm on relocating their community due to aircraft noise, the firm was passed over for other companies when it came time to do the work. The editorial says that Michael is in the wrong and has offended residents.

Maryland County Board Struggles With Whether to Allow Trucking and Manufacturing Uses in Certain Zones, While Residents Worry About More Noise and Traffic (Nov. 21, 1997). The Baltimore Sun reports that the Howard County (Maryland) Planning Board delayed a vote yesterday on whether to allow warehouses, truck terminals, and manufacturing centers in planned employment center zones. Members of the board said the proposal by the county administration to add the additional uses was too vague, and asked for clarification. Meanwhile, residents who attended the hearing opposed the changes, saying their neighborhoods would be hurt by the creation of more noise and traffic.

Developer in New Zealand Wants to Build Near Airport (Nov. 20, 1997). The Southland Times reports that at a hearing in Queenstown, New Zealand yesterday, officials from the development company Remarkables Park argued that their proposed subdivision zoning near the Queenstown Airport should be allowed, in conjunction with acoustic insulation in the homes. The developer's comments came after two days of Queenstown Lakes District Council district plan hearings in which opponents of the proposed zoning change -- developer Terrace Tower and airlines Air New Zealand and the Mount Cook Group -- spoke.

Kentucky Airport Board Angers Town by Snubbing Engineer the Town Had Chosen to Help it Relocate Due to Jet Noise (Nov. 20, 1997). The Courier-Journal reports that the Regional Airport Authority in Louisville, Kentucky has ignored the recommendation of leaders in Minor Lane Heights for an engineering firm to design a new site for residents to move to because of intolerable jet noise from the Louisville International Airport. Minor Lane Heights residents had worked with the firm the town recommended for two years to come up with an acceptable residential development design. In response to the airport authority's decision, leaders of Minor Lane Heights are threatening to move without the airport's assistance, or even to stay put. Leaders also said residents might consider selling their property directly to a private developer or commercial interest and selecting their own relocation site. Minor Lane Heights Mayor Fred Williams said he will get more input from his constituents, but he added, "It would tickle me to death for everybody to tell them to stick it."

New Zealand Judge Sets Noise Insulation Rules for Housing Near Airport (Nov. 20, 1997). The Evening Post reports that Environment Court Judge Kenderdine ruled yesterday that new housing developments on industrial or commercial land around the Wellington (New Zealand) Airport will have to meet new planning rules, including the use of noise insulation. The article says that the ruling is an attempt to end an 11-year battle over noise at Wellington Airport. Meanwhile, residents that have been fighting for stronger noise controls said that the ruling passes the problem back to the community instead of to the noise-makers.

Residents in Formerly Rural North Carolina Area Target Gun Ranges as Too Noisy and Unsafe (Nov. 20, 1997). The News and Observer reports that there is a growing battle in the Durham, North Carolina area between residents of new subdivisions and proponents of gun ranges. In one recent fight, Duncan Floyd, a property owner who wanted to expand his private shooting range, met with strong opposition from neighbors and dropped his request for a permit, the article says.

Univeral Studio's California Expansion Plan Moves Closer to Approval; Noise Consultant Testifies that Studio Should Provide More Data About Noise (Nov. 20, 1997). The Los Angeles Times reports that the county Regional Planning Commission in Los Angeles, California will being studying the feasibility of a proposed on-ramp at Universal Studios for the Hollywood Freeway. The ramp has been proposed by Universal Studios, which is undertaking a $1-billion expansion of their buildings. Residents say they haven't been involved in Universal's decisions, and a noise consultant admitted that Universal didn't give enough information about how noisy there facility can be.

County Commissioners Approve Firing Range Near North Carolina Town, Angering Residents (Nov. 18, 1997). The News and Observer reports that county commissioners in Wake County, North Carolina voted Monday to approve a firing range near Holly Springs. The decision angered residents and officials in Holly Springs, who said their town is becoming a dumping ground for facilities no one else wants.

Fast Food Restaurant Proposal Near Residential Area is Rejected in Texas (Nov. 18, 1997). The Dallas Morning News reports that planning and zoning commissioners in Plano, Texas on Monday rejected a request for a new Sonic drive-in restaurant on Coit Road due to the proximity of a residential neighborhood, and complaints from residents about the noise, traffic, and trash the restaurant would bring.

Georgia Planners Gear Up for Increasing Business Sector Air Traffic at General Aviation Airports (Nov. 17, 1997). The Atlanta Journal reports that because businesses are increasingly owning their own fleets of jets, general aviation airports in the Atlanta area are booming. According to Bill Peratta, senior planner for the Atlanta Regional Commission, takeoffs and landings at these airports now outnumber commercial airliner takeoffs and landings at Atlanta's Hartsfield International Airport. Planners in the area are beginning to think about how to help general aviation airports manage the future air traffic growth, including how to deal with noise pollution and transportation congestion issues.

Relocation of Residential Neighborhoods Near Kentucky Airport Will Free Up Prime Land for Industry (Nov. 17, 1997). The Courier-Journal reports that the communities of Minor Lane Heights and Edgewood, near the Louisville (Kentucky) International Airport, are in the heaviest noise zones surrounding the airport, and residents are expected to be moved to new neighborhoods in an airport buyout plan over the next several years. The article explores in detail the economic benefits that could result from using the land the neighborhoods now occupy for industrial and commercial airport-related development.

California Residents Air Their Views About Proposed Conversion of Marine Base to Commercial Airport (Nov. 16, 1997). The Los Angeles Times printed the following letters-to-the-editor from residents in the Irvine, California area regarding the proposed conversion of the El Toro Marine Corps Air Station into a commercial airport:

Florida Residents Living Near Proposed Lakeshore Park Are Worried About Noise (Nov. 15, 1997). The Florida Times-Union reports that residents in Eagle Harbor, in the Jacksonville, Florida area, are worried about the county's plans to build a 3-acre recreational park on Doctors Lake off Lakeshore Drive North, because of the potential noise from loud, late-night music. The county planning commission will hold a public hearing on the matter on December 2, and will decide the matter on December 23.

California Residents Worry About Expansion of Nearby Church, Saying More Noise and Traffic Will Result (Nov. 14, 1997). The Ventura County Star reports that residents living near the Ventura Missionary Church in Ventura, California, are worried that the church's proposed 33,000-square-foot expansion will add more noise and traffic problems to their neighborhood. The Planning Commission is set to consider the church's request on Dec. 2, the article notes.

Dorm Shortage in Maryland University Town Sends Students Off-Campus, Resulting in Rising Noise Complaints (Nov. 14, 1997). The Baltimore Sun reports that dormitory rooms at Towson University in Towson, Maryland are at 101% of capacity, with 150 more students waiting for rooms. As a result, more students have been moving into nearby apartments and houses, which has triggered complaints about noise, parties, and trash from residential neighborhoods.

North Carolina County and School Board Officials Fight Over Proposed Location of New School Near Airport (Nov. 14, 1997). The News & Record reports that members of the Guilford County (North Carolina) school board told Guilford residents Thursday that some of the county commissioners have lied to them and virtually eliminated a property from consideration as a site for a new northwest middle school. County commissioners have twice in the past few weeks rejected the school board's request to approve money to purchase a site on Horsepen Creek Road, citing the high price of the site, and safety and noise concerns because of the site's proximity to the Piedmont Triad International Airport. In response, the school board is now considering the possibility of building elsewhere, including on land that is now part of county-owned Bur-Mil Park and a site owned by the Piedmont Triad International Airport.

California Wedding Retreat Site and Neighbors Continue Five-Year Feud Over Noise and Traffic (Nov. 13, 1997). The Los Angeles Times reports that a retreat center called Fantasy Island, located in Agoura, California, has had a long history of noise and traffic complaints. The article discusses the history of the problems at the center, owned by a sometimes-inflammatory Israeli immigrant. The article notes that problems have often stemmed from lame zoning enforcement and lack of action by local officials.

Fines for Helicopter Noise Made by Rich Maryland Executive Thrown Out of Court on a Technicality (Nov. 13, 1997). The Baltimore Sun reports that officials in Baltimore County, Maryland have been attempting to collect $800 in zoning citations from a rich executive who lands his helicopter in Green Spring Valley, an exclusive residential neighborhood in the Lutherville area. But yesterday a hearing officer threw out the fines because county zoning inspectors listed the wrong address on the citation. Zoning officials, however, are vowing to file new complaints against Martin Grass, the Chair and Chief Executive Officer of Rite Aid Corp., who uses the helicopter for his 20-minute commute to the company's headquarters in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.

Freight Yard Approved Near Commercial and Residential Buildings in a Massachusetts Town; Business Owners Vow to Appeal (Nov. 12, 1997). The Telegram & Gazette reports that the Zoning Board in Sterling, Massachusetts, near Worcester, has granted a special permit to Colnon & Co. to develop a freight yard behind the Barbers Crossing North Restaurant on Route 12. Residents and business owners are angry at the decision, and some are planning to appeal.

Proposed Arizona Subdivision Would Place Homes Near Future Freeway, Raising Town Officials' Concern (Nov. 12, 1997). The Arizona Republic reports that a proposed 300-house subdivision near Gilbert, Arizona is being opposed by town officials because the development would threaten town land use plans for development around the Williams Gateway Airport, and because it would place homes next to the future San Tan Freeway, exposing future residents to traffic noise and fumes. However, town officials lack jurisdiction over the 75-acre land parcel, because it is an un-incorporated county "island" surrounded by the town. The proposal for the Hudson Ranches housing subdivision is expected to come before the Maricopa County Planning and Zoning Commission on November 20.

Noise Consultant Recommends Stronger Noise Restrictions for Universal Studio's Proposed Expansion in California (Nov. 11, 1997). The Los Angeles Times reports that according to a noise consultant, the construction that Universal Studios has proposed should follow county standards rather than the more lenient city standards. He also said that noise measurements should be taken at the studios at unannounced times.

Orlando Homeowners Reject Hotel Proposal from Universal Studios on Grounds of Traffic and Noise (Nov. 2, 1997). The Chicago Tribune reports that a group of Orlando, Florida, homeowners challenged Universal Studios Florida and won. Using increased traffic and noise pollution as issues, the residents persuaded the city's planning board to deny the theme park's application to build a hotel and golf course near their homes.

Noise Regulation is Part of Indiana Town's Comprehensive Plan (Nov. 1, 1997). A much longer article from The Indianapolis News reports Westfield, Indiana's vision for their comprehensive plan for growth and management that came from two recent planning sessions. Among the priorities of the 140 residents who participated were desires to preserve the rural charm of their area while fostering mixed growth, and subdivisions with houses that aren't mirror images of each other. Among their concerns was the regulation of noise pollution from a nearby airport.

Foundry in New Mexico Ordered to Cease Noisy Outside Work (Oct. 30, 1997). The Santa Fe New Mexican reports that neighbors of a foundry won a partial victory in their pursuit of peace and quiet . For the past five years, neighbors have complained about the noises coming from the Shidoni foundry in Tesuque, New Mexico. The foundry is located in a primarily residential area. On Tuesday night, David Dougherty, whose property borders Shidoni's, and other unhappy neighbors, won their noise battle. The city-county Extraterritorial Zoning Authority upheld an earlier ruling banning the foundry from working on its sculptures outdoors.

South Carolina Activist Works to Clean Up Pollution, Appointed to National Advisory Board (Oct. 30, 1997). The Post and Courier of Charleston, South Carolina, reports that resident turned activist Delbert DuBois has taken action on several environmental problems, including noise and industry contamination, in his Four Mile Hibernian neighborhood. And now DuBois will get the chance to influence environmental decisions nationwide. Starting in November, DuBois will serve as an adviser on the National Environmental Justice Advisory Council, a branch of the EPA.

In a Twist, Texas Neighbors and Activists Support Noisy Business (Oct. 29, 1997). The Austin-American Statesman of Austin, Texas, reports that neighborhood residents in East Austin gathered to demand that the city award its 30-year curbside recycling contract to their old nemesis, BFI's Bolm Road recycling plant. In the past, the recycling plant has left wind-blown trash onto their lawns, annoyed them with crashing trash containers and sent trucks past their houses as many as 100 times a day. But residents and East Austin environmental activists urged the city to choose BFI, because the company has promised the neighborhood that it will move out if it gets the contract. BFI holds the current city contract, but it says the city's increasing recycling load would force it to move to a bigger facility if the contract is renewed.

Not a Good Idea to Overturn the Los Angeles Warner Center Plan (Oct. 29, 1997). The California Daily News of Los Angeles (Valley Edition) recently printed an editorial expressing its views on a decision by a state court of appeal to overturn the Warner Center Specific Plan. Noise pollution at the schools is an issue. Herein follows the editorial:

California Commisioner Urges Residents to Vote No on Measure U or Lose Public Input (Oct. 28, 1997). The Press-Enterprise of Riverside, California, published the following editorial by John Harrison who talks about the quality of life in Redlands and the threat of Measure U to close public debate around such issues as land use, noise, and traffic.

Love Airfield in Dallas Looks to Chicago's Midway Airport for Growth Strategies (Oct. 26, 1997). The Chicago Tribune printed an article in which an in-depth comparison is made between the Love Airfield in Dallas, Texas and the Midway Airport in Chicago, Illinois. Both airports are located in inner-city neighborhoods, and both play second fiddle to two of the world's largest airports. While Midway has experienced a small, but promising revitalization in recent years, Love Field's re-development is in an earlier stage. However, Congress currently is debating whether to make changes to the Wright amendment, a federal law that restricts flights from Love Field to destinations within Texas and its four neighboring states. Changes to the Wright amendment could improve the revitalization prospects for Love Field. Meanwhile, some Dallas residents oppose any increase in flights to and from Love Field because of increases in noise, pollution, and congestion.

California Schools Win Court Case Against Development Plan Due to Noise and Air Pollution Impacts (Oct. 25, 1997). The Daily News of Los Angeles reports that California's Second District Court of Appeal invalidated a plan Friday that would allow the Warner Center in Woodland Hills, California to double its commercial and office space. The court found that the city failed to adequately address noise and air pollution impacts on nearby schools.

Environmental Group Joins Appeal of Homestead Air Force Base Permit in Florida (Oct. 24, 1997). The following wire report was released by US Newswire of Washington, DC, about the National Parks and Conversation Association's recent action regarding a permit for the re-development of Homestead Air Force Base in southern Florida.

California Residents Are Up in Arms Over Proposed Truck Storage Area in Their Neighborhood (Oct. 23, 1997). The Los Angeles Times reports that residents in the Virginia Colony neighborhood of Moorpark, California say that a proposed truck storage lot near their homes is intolerable because of existing noisy industries and highways already nearby.

Universal Studios Loses Bid to Build Hotel and Golf Course in Orlando After Neighbors Complain About Increased Noise and Traffic (Oct. 22, 1997). The Orlando Sentinel reports that a group of residents in south Orlando, Florida opposed a project by Universal studies to build a hotel and golf course near their homes and won Tuesday when the city's planning board denied the request. The residents opposed the project based on the increased traffic and noise they believed would result.

Virginia County Considers New Zoning Ordinance Intended to Reduce Conflicts Between Suburban and Agricultural Uses (Oct. 22, 1997). The Roanoke Times & World News reports that a public hearing will be held tonight to draw comments on Montgomery County, Virginia's proposed new zoning ordinance. The changes to the ordinance have been proposed in an attempt to reduce potential conflicts between agricultural uses and suburban residential uses of land. Suburbanites in the past have complained of certain agricultural uses which they say cause noise and odor problems. Meanwhile, farmers are find it increasingly difficult to use their land for agricultural uses as suburban sprawl surrounds them.

Colorado City Councilor Challenges Proposed Annexation Plan Due to Jet Noise Under Parcel (Oct. 21, 1997). The Rocky Mountain News reports that a City Councilor in Greenwood Village, Colorado challenged a proposed 80-acre annexation Monday, saying it makes no sense to build 499 homes beneath a flight path for Centennial Airport. The issue was raised during a public hearing on the proposed annexation, which would annex South Peoria Street, Cherry Creek Drive, and parts of Peoria Street and East Belleview Avenue. The developer, Cherry Creek Holdings Partnership, sought annexation to Greenwood Village after the Arapahoe County commissioners rejected the housing plan, based largely on concerns about aircraft noise. Meanwhile, the article reports, three studies have reached different conclusions about the impact of aircraft noise on the site.

Idaho Residents' Concerns About Proposed Party Facility Causes Entrepreneur to Withdraw Idea (Oct. 21, 1997). The Idaho Statesman reports that the Boise City Planning and Zoning Commission approved a request for a conditional-use permit for a commercial reception center in a residential neighborhood in Northwest Boise. But the prospective buyer who requested the permit said she will not go forward with plans for the facility because nearby residents are opposed to it. Residents have said they are worried that the center would create noise, congested traffic, and parking problems.

Neighbors of Sex Club in Hollywood Try to Shut it Down Due to Noise and Parking Problems (Oct. 21, 1997). The Daily News of Los Angeles reports that residents in a Hollywood, California neighborhood are seeking to shut down a gay sex club that is operating without a permit because of problems with noise and parking. However, the article reports, Los Angeles Councilor Jackie Goldberg is working to keep the club open. The operators of the club are seeking a conditional use permit that would allow the club to stay open, even though it is next to a residential neighborhood and near an elementary school. The City Council's Planning and Land Use Management Committee is to consider the proposal today, the article says.

Residents in Arizona Town Oppose Potential Move of the State Fair to Their Neighborhood (Oct. 21, 1997). The Arizona Republic reports that the Arizona State Fair, currently located in Phoenix, intends to relocate in a few years, and residents living near a possible new site in Gilbert are in an uproar over the possible relocation to their neighborhood. They oppose the move because they believe the fair would drive down property values, increase crime and vandalism, clog up streets, and cause too much noise, the article says. As a result of resident sentiment, the Gilbert Town Council unanimously passed a resolution last month opposing the fair's move to the area. Meanwhile, residents living near the fair's current location don't want it to leave, saying the fair has mostly been a good neighbor, and they are worried about what might locate on the land parcel if the fair isn't there.

Debate Continues About Proposed El Toro Airport in California (Oct. 19, 1997). The Los Angeles Times printed the following letters-to-the-editor from several residents in Laguna Niguel, Laguna Hills, Newport Beach, and Santa Ana, California regarding the proposed conversion of the El Toro Marine Corps Base into an international airport:

Neighbors of California's Universal Studios Mount Increasing Opposition to Noise and Expansion Plans (Oct. 19, 1997). The San Diego Union-Tribune reports that neighbors of Universal Studios in the Los Angeles, California area are mounting an opposition over the studio's plans for a multi-billion-dollar expansion. Residents already have been disturbed for years by the lights, noise, and continuous action from the studios, and now they say the expansion plans are too much.

New Plans for Mall in Northern Virginia Upset Residents; County Board Postpones Decision (Oct. 19, 1997). The Washington Post reports that 950 residents in Countryside, Virginia have signed petitions opposing a proposed 1.2 million-square-foot mall at the intersection of Routes 7 and 28. Residents say they are not opposed to a mall in principle, but are alarmed at the proposed changes in the mall's plans that would cause it to be more intrusive in their rural area, bringing noise, pollution, and glaring lights. Due to resident opposition, the County Board of Supervisors has postponed a decision on the requested changes and have agreed to hold a town hall meeting on the issue early next month.

Virginia Citizens Like Waterfront Gathering Area; Some Residents Dislike its Noise (Oct. 19, 1997). The Virginian-Pilot printed an editorial regarding a recent "Vision 2005" meeting in Portsmouth, Virginia Thursday to discuss Portside, the downtown waterfront gathering place. The columnist said a standing-room-only crowd showed up to give both positive and negative comments on the area. While some nearby residents spoke against the gathering place on the grounds of noise, many residents gave positive comments. The columnist argues that the area provides a needed community space, and that the noise impact on the surrounding area can be mitigated.

Florida Theatre is too Disruptive for the Neighbors (Oct. 18, 1997). The Orlando Sentinel reports that residents in Lake Helen, Florida are speaking out about the nuisance of a theatre in their neighborhood. They told City Commissioners at a meeting Thursday that the theatre generates too much noise and traffic for a residential neighborhood. In response to residents and the theatre manager's comments, Commissioners decided to review about seven years' worth of records to determine whether the theater's existence is in violation of any city codes.

Auto Speedway Approved with Contingencies in Maryland as a Result of Citizen Input (Oct. 17, 1997). The Baltimore Sun reports that officials in Baltimore County, Maryland said yesterday that they would support a proposed auto speedway in Middle River only if the developer helps build wide roads to handle traffic. In response, the developer warned that such restrictions might make the project impossible. Meanwhile, residents who have strongly opposed the track worked with county officials to get many of their concerns reflected in the county's offer to the developer.

New Jersey Residents Oppose Construction of Supermarket and Accompanying Sound Wall (Oct. 17, 1997). The Asbury Park Press reports that the Planning Board in Shrewsbury, New Jersey postponed a decision on a proposal to build a 58,000-square-foot Edwards supermarket off Newman Springs Road till November 6. At a meeting Wednesday night, residents who live near the proposed site continued to protest the plan, the article says, and have hired a lawyer to help them fight the proposal. Residents object both to the presence of a supermarket and to a 14-foot sound barrier the developer has proposed building to cut down on noise from the supermarket.

Lawsuit Over Burbank Airport Expansion Will Clarify Laws on Local Control of Jet Noise (Oct. 6, 1997). The Los Angeles Times reports the the outcome of a pending lawsuit between Burbank, California and Burbank Airport's airport authority will make it clearer for all airports as to when a local government can regulate aircraft noise at an airport. The first court appearance for the lawsuit will be on the last day in October in county court, although because of its implications the case may end up in the Supreme Court. The article discusses the background behind the fight, and how it will affect other cities authority to curb jet noise and designate land use for airports.

Residents Protest Possible Disappearance of Community Garden Near California Airport (Oct. 2, 1997). The Los Angeles Times reports that a 22-year-old community garden across the street from Van Nuys Airport may turn into a car dealership if the city goes through with its plan to lease the property to a developer. Residents oppose the idea.

Toronto Airport Loses First Round in Legal Battle to Halt a Subdivision Construction (Oct. 2, 1997). The Toronto Star reports that the Greater Toronto (Ontario) Airports Authority has lost the first round of a legal battle to stop a subdivision from being built under a flight path in Mississauga. The article says that three Divisional Court judges ruled against the authority's argument that the effects of noise on residents should be a factor in deciding whether the proposed 200-home subdivision in the Meadowvale Village district should be built. The subdivision would be about five kilometers from the airport, the article notes. The authority also had appealed the project to the Ontario Municipal Board, but because of yesterday's ruling, only arguments on planning grounds now can be heard in that court.

Decision by Pennsylvania Airport Officials to Re-Locate 52 Homes Angers Residents (Sep. 29, 1997). The Morning Call reports that airport officials at the Lehigh Valley International Airport recently received a $3 million federal grant to re-locate the residents of 52 homes in the Williamson Mobile Home Court in Schoenersville, Pennsylvania. But homeowners are upset by the decision, the article says -- some because they learned about the airport's plans in the newspaper, and others because they don't want to move.

Hearing on Soundproofing and Purchase Program for Homes Near Indianapolis Airport is Postponed (Sep. 26, 1997). The Indianapolis Star reports that a public hearing on the Indianapolis (Indiana) Airport Authority's plans to alleviate noise problems for surrounding homeowners has been postponed until November after a request from the Plainfield Town Council for a 15-day extension. The hearing was supposed to be held Monday, but now will be held on November 12, the article says.

Colorado Airport Gets Federal Funding for Noise Study (Sep. 24, 1997). The Denver Post reports that the Federal Aviation Administration has approved a $400,000 grant for a two-year noise study at Centennial Airport in Arapahoe County, Colorado. The study will be used as a standard for noise mitigation efforts once it is completed, the article says.

Florida City Votes to Approve Airport Expansion and Land Deal for Cargo Hub (Sep. 18, 1997). The Sun-Sentinel reports that the Hollywood (Florida) City Commission voted Wednesday to approve a land deal proposed by developer Michael Swerdlow to create a cargo hub between the port and the airport and to approve the $1.5 billion expansion of the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport. The commission's decisions came after Swerdlow offered annual payment to the city in lieu of taxes.

Long Island Town Rejects Expansion Plan for Shopping Center Due to Citizen Protests (Sep. 18, 1997). Newsday reports that the North Hempstead (New York) Town Board voted unanimously Tuesday to reject plans for expanding a shopping center on Port Washington Boulevard, near a residential area. The board voted after a public hearing that attracted more than 100 residents who opposed the expansion. Residents believed the project would increase traffic, congestion, and noise.

Pennsylvania Airport Authority Seizes Land Planned for Residential Development (Sep. 18, 1997). The Morning Call reports that the Lehigh-Northampton Airport Authority has seized 107 acres of land by eminent domain in Catasauqua, Pennsylvania, effectively killing plans for a 262-home residential development that was being considered by the town Planning Commission. In seizing the land, the authority also may have saved three heavily used baseball diamonds, which were also being considered for development. Now, Catasauqua's mayor says he will ask the airport whether more sports fields could be built on the seized land, which the airport says it has no plans to develop.

Tennessee Residents Oppose Airport Land-Purchase Plan (Sep. 16, 1997). The Chattanooga Times reports that residents of the Pine Grove and Portview Hills subdivisions in Chattanooga, Tennessee told members of the Metropolitan Airport Authority Monday that they aren't concerned about the aircraft noise generated at Lovell Field. However, according to Madeline Sims, president of the area's neighborhood association, the residents are worried that the airport authority will purchase their homes piecemeal and at low prices.

Massive Expansion of Virginia Navy Air Base Would Bring More Jet Noise and Other Impacts (Sep. 12, 1997). 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.

One-Fourth of Virginia City's Schools Would Have to be Moved if Navy Air Base Expands (Sep. 12, 1997). 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.

Maine City Rejects Airline Maintenance Facility Development Due Partly to Noise Concerns (Sep. 10, 1997). 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.

Airport Noise Pollution is No Reason to Purchase Property, Resident Believes (Sep. 4, 1997). The Morning Call printed the following letter-to-the-editor from L.R. Labar, a Hanover Township (Pennsylvania) resident, regarding an buyout of land by the Lehigh Valley International Airport:

New Citizens Group in Toronto Area Formed to Fight Aircraft Noise (Sep. 4, 1997). The Toronto Star reports that a new ratepayers' association for the 14,000 residents of the Rockwood subdivision in Mississauga, Ontario will be formed this month to fight aircraft noise from Pearson International Airport. The Rockwood area is affected by both aircraft noise and high-density development proposals, the article notes.

California Cemetery Sues Transportation Authorities for Noise of Proposed Rail Extension (Sep. 2, 1997). The Recorder reports that the Cypress Lawn Cemetery Association in the San Francisco, California area has filed a lawsuit against BART (a rail transportation authority) and the San Mateo County Transit District at the San Mateo County Superior Court. The suit claims the transportation authorities violated the California Environmental Quality Act by failing to address ways to reduce or eliminate noise, vibrations, dust, landscaping scars, and architectural damage on the cemetery's property that borders BART's eight-mile planned extension to the San Francisco International Airport.

Salvation Army in Boise Fights Order to Build Wall to Protect Neighbors From Noise (Aug. 31, 1997). The Idaho Statesman reports that the Salvation Army in Boise, Idaho is fighting a directive from the city's Planning and Zoning Commission to build a 10-foot masonry wall at its State Street store to shield nieghbors from noise. The Salvation Army plans to take its case to the Boise City Council on Sept. 9, the article says.

Arkansas Airport Gets Federal Noise Grant to Purchase Land (Aug. 30, 1997). The Commercial Appeal reports that U.S. Transportation Secretary Rodney Slater announced Thursday the City of Little Rock, Arkansas will receive a $1 million grant to acquire land near Adams Field to reduce the impact of noise from the airport as it continues to grow. The grant is part of the Federal Aviation Administration's Airport Improvement Program, the article says.

Maryland County Board Approves Private Airstrip Over Neighbors' Objections (Aug. 28, 1997). The Baltimore Sun reports that the Carroll County (Maryland) Board of Zoning Appeals yesterday approved an application for a private airstrip on a 208-acre property in Woodbine. The board approved construction of a 50-foot by 1,785-foot landing strip, but stipulated that the strip can only be used by the owner's two single-engine planes for 40 trips per year.

Voters in Colorado Community to Decide Development Fate of Land in Airport Noise Zone (Aug. 27, 1997). The Denver Post reports that the City Council in Greenwood Village, Colorado has decided to ask voters whether the city should annex a piece of land from Arapahoe County for a new housing development. The housing development recently was turned down by the Arapahoe County Commission because the land is inside a high noise zone of the Centennial Airport.

Jurors Tour Louisiana Neighborhood in Lawsuit Over Noise and Odors From Shell Plant (Aug. 26, 1997). The Times-Picayune reports that a Louisiana jury from toured a neighborhood in Norco Monday in connection with a lawsuit brought by residents against Shell Oil Company. The approximately 250 residents in the suit say the plant is an unbearable nuisance due to its odors, noise, and flare problems, and are seeking enough money to move.

Rhode Island Airport Redevelopment Plan Seeks to Eliminate Residential Neighborhood (Aug. 19, 1997). The Providence Journal-Bulletin reports that the phenomenal growth of the T.F. Green Airport in Warwick, Rhode Island has led city officials hoping to capitalize on the airport's success to propose an Airport Economic Redevelopment Plan, in which Hillsgrove is targeted for more commercial and light-industrial development. The plans would eliminate the neighborhoods in the historic village. The article details the history of Hillsgrove, and the sentiments of residents who eventually will lose their homes.

Residents Concerned About Possible Airfield Expansion in Wisconsin City (Aug. 5, 1997). The Capital Times reports that residents in Middleton, Wisconsin who are concerned about possible expansion of Morey Field told town officials that airpcraft noise is already a problem at the airfield. The city is considering purchasing the airport as an option to having it develop as a private business park.

Pennsylvania Residents Fear Possible Sale of Airport to County (Jul. 27, 1997). The Morning Call reports that residents in the Whitpain, Pennsylvania area are strongly opposing the possible purchase of Wings Field by the Montgomery County Airport Authority, which is studying the issue. If purchased, the airport's runway would be lengthened, and residents fear this will bring more air traffic to the area. Meanwhile, various members of the recently created airport authority have defended accusations that they have conflicts of interest, and two members have resigned.

Canadian City's Proposed Plan Faces Appeal from Airports Authority Because of Planned Land Uses (Jul. 24, 1997). The Toronto Star reports that the proposed new Official Plan in Mississauga, Ontario is being appealed by the Greater Toronto Airports Authority because it will allow development in high-noise areas near Pearson International Airport. The authority is afraid that such development will result in residents opposing future operations and expansion of the airport. The authority's appeal also is supported by the Air Transport Association of Canada, an umbrella group representing airlines and helicopter operators. The appeal will be heard by the Ontario Municipal Board, the article reports.

California Appeals Court Upholds Vote on Commercial Airport at El Toro Air Base (Jul. 1, 1997). The Los Angeles Times reports that a district appeals court in San Diego, California rejected an attempt by opponents of the proposed El Toro Airport to invalidate a 1994 referendum that supported the airport. Other lawsuits from airport opponents are still to be decided.

Residents Drop Lawsuit Against Indianapolis Airport After Soundproofing Agreement Reached (Jun. 30, 1997). The Indianapolis Business Journal reports that a group of residents in Plainfield, Indiana has dropped its lawsuit over airport noise after the Indianapolis Airport Authority agreed to include the residents' homes in a new noise-reduction program. The agreement stipulates that the authority will pay to soundproof homes in the Cottonwood Court subdivision, but if residents are still bothered by the noise, the authority would purchase their homes and try to resell them.

Nuns in Colorado Move their Abbey Due to Noise and Development (Jun. 29, 1997). The Dallas Morning News reports that the 22 nuns at the Abbey of St. Walburga near Boulder, Colorado have decided to move their abbey because of the noise and development that now surround their once-rural home. The article says the nuns are building a new abbey on a donated plot of land near the Colorado-Wyoming border, about a two-hour drive north from their current location.

Florida City Buys Land Parcel to Buffer Homeowners from Traffic Noise (Jun. 22, 1997). The Sun-Sentinel reports that the City Commission in Deerfield Beach, Florida has agreed to puchase a two-acre parcel of land for $250,000 to buffer homeowners from noise and traffic along Southwest 10th Street. The agreement came after years of complaints about traffic noise from residents in the Waterford Homes subdivision, and lobbying by City Commissioner Kathy Shaddow. The new parcel borders the Waterford City Park and will be added to the park, the article says.

Commission in Connecticut Town Seeks New Location for Day-Care Center Due to Airport Noise (Jun. 14, 1997). The Hartford Courant reports that the Suffield, Connecticut Economic Development Commission is requesting a different lot for a proposed day-care center in the town's Mach I Industrial Park due to aircraft noise from Bradley International Airport.

Florida Airport Authority Makes Deal to Prohibit Lawsuits From Future Residents (Jun. 13, 1997). The Sun-Sentinel reports that the Boca Raton (Florida) Airport Authority Thursday approved a $1 million deal that makes it illegal for future residents on a 78-acre parcel of undeveloped land next to the airport's runway to sue the airport due to problems associated with planes flying overhead. The deal, called "avigation" easement, stipulates that future homeowners cannot sue the airport for problems such as noise, vibrations, odors, or vapors. In addition, the airport will have the right to use the airspace over the land parcel without restriction, and this will be written into the deeds.

Florida Airport and Developer Considering Deal to Prevent Future Homeowners from Suing Against Noise (Jun. 12, 1997). The Palm Beach Post reports that the Boca Raton (Florida) Airport Authority will vote today on whether to pay a developer several hundred thousand dollars to prevent future homeowners on a 78-acre parcel of land near the airport from suing about noise. The authority is considering purchasing the "avigation rights" for the land north of the Boca Raton Municipal Airport.

Airport Study in Louisiana Recommends that Airport Development be Zoned (Jun. 7, 1997). The Times-Picayune reports that the Kenner (Louisiana) City Council has sponsored a study which has recommended that the council could better control noise and protect the value of property near New Orleans International Airport by creating a strict zoning review process of airport development. The City Council's emergency land-use committee will discuss the draft study at a meeting Monday at 4 p.m.

Judge to Decide Fate of Mobile Home Park Near Baltimore-Washington Airport (May 29, 1997). The Capital reports that the the 72-acre Ridgewood Mobile Home Park, home to 126 families in Hanover, Maryland, is now in the hands of Circuit Court Judge Eugene Lerner after two days of technical testimony. Last year, Maryland Aviation Administration officials began condemnation proceedings against the property after trying to purchase it for 10 years. The property is less than a mile from the Baltimore-Washington International Airport, and is subject to noise levels that concern airport officials and upset many of the residents. But mobile home park owners Symcha and Joan Shpak have fought to keep the property operating as a mobile home park, saying the state has not offered them enough money and they won't be able to re-sell the land.

Citizen Panel in Virginia Makes Airport Noise Recommendations (May 28, 1997). The Washington Post reports that a citizen panel created to address concerns about expansion of the Manassas (Virginia) Regional Airport will recommend a series of actions aimed at reducing airplane noise and requiring disclosure to potential buyers of nearby homes. However, the article reports, the panel is divided on the issue of how to compensate current residents, who fear that the new disclosure rules will make it difficult to sell their homes. The 16-member committee is scheduled to complete its work Wednesday, and will present its findings and recommendations to the Prince William Board of County Supervisors on June 10.

Proposed New Runway at Baltimore - Washington Airport Debated in Court Proceedings to Eliminate Mobile Home Park (May 28, 1997). The Baltimore Sun reports that prospects for a new runway at Baltimore-Washington International Airport were debated yesterday in Anne Arundel Circuit Court at a hearing on a lawsuit filed by the Maryland Aviation Administration to take temporary control of a nearby mobile home park and move its residents.

Angry Neighbors in Connecticut Take Farmer to Court Over Noise From "Corn Cannons" (May 27, 1997). The Hartford Courant reports that residents from the Bell Court subdivision of Portland, Connecticut have taken their farmer neighbor to court over noise from propane corn cannons that scare off blackbirds from his sweet corn crop. Judge Richard Stanley is considering the case in the Middlesex Superior Court.

New Zealand Airplane Noise Fight in Court Will Begin in August (May 26, 1997). The Evening Post reports that New Zealand's Environment Court has set aside the month of August to hear appeals against Wellington City Council's noise rules, contained in the proposed district plan, that would regulate airport noise. Appeals will be brought both by residents groups and by airline groups.

Housing Under Flight-Path in Vancouver Worries Airport Officials (May 22, 1997). The Vancouver Sun reports that the city of Richmond, British Columbia intends to develop a 14-hectare property it owns into a residential neighborhood, but officials at the Vancouver International Airport want to make sure the prospective buyers will be warned in advance that their homes are under a major flight path. They have proposed that an "air easement" be registered on the property's land title, which would prevent future owners from seeking damages because of aircraft noise.

Racetrack Proposal in New Hampshire Town Prompts Vote on a Zoning Ordinance (May 21, 1997). The Union Leader reports that voters in Effingham, New Hampshire, a town of about 900, will vote Thursday on whether to adopt a temporary zoning ordinance in the town in response to a developer's plan to build a racetrack on his land. The town is emotionally divided over whether to adopt the ordinance, the article says.

Albany Airport Authority Plans To Buy More Homes (May 15, 1997). The Times Union reports the Albany (New York) County Airport plans to buy 9 more homes north of the airport, according to airport Chief Executive Officer John Egan. More than 30 houses have already been bought in the past by either the airport authority or Albany County, which used to own and operate the airport. The 9 homes on Kelly Road, if purchased, are planned to be demolished or converted into commercial buildings, garages, or warehouses.

South Carolina Land-Use Plan Designed To Prevent Noise Pollution (May 15, 1997). The Post and Courier reports the Hanahan (South Carolina) City Council adopted a land-use plan that would permit only 120 acres of the 746-acre Brown Tract to be used for businesses, with the rest used for single-family homes. City Administrator Dan Davis states the 120 acres will be rezoned by the city planning commission for "limited industry," meaning businesses that are environmentally friendly and compatible with residential areas. The commission's aim is to prevent noise and traffic pollution. A land architect had originally proposed 238 acres be used for industry.

New York County Police Officers Set Up Traps to Capture All-Terrain Vehicle Riders (May 12, 1997). Newsday reports that Suffolk County (New York) police officers this weekend impounded five all-terrain vehicles and issued summonses to their drivers near Brookhaven, New York. The police operation, in conjunction with officials from Brookhaven Town, the Suffolk Parks Department, and the state Department of Conservation, set up traps Saturday to capture the all-terrain vehicle riders and charged them with having open alcoholic beverages and operating an all-terrain vehicle without the property owners' permission. Police officials' action came after serious complaints from property owners about the noise and dust from the vehicles, which are now banned on public land.

It's Not Always Quieter in the Country (May 7, 1997). The Daily Telegraph printed an editorial in which the writer outlines why it is often noisier in the country in Great Britain than in the city, town, or suburbs.

Army Wants Residential Development Restricted Around Fort Knox Due to Potential Noise Complaints (May 4, 1997). The Courier-Journal reports that army officials are worried that the Fort Knox army base could be threatened due to increases in noise complaints if landowners are allowed to build homes near the base in Radcliff, Kentucky. Army officials want a noise buffer zone to surround the base. Meanwhile, in a lawsuit to be heard May 12 at the Hardin fiscal court, homeowner Dale Irwin is expected to win permission from the court to build a home near the base.

European Group Wants European Union To Set New Noise Rules For Airports (Apr. 29, 1997). The publication Airports reports that the European Center of Enterprises with Public Participation (CEEP), the union of public-owned enterprises in Brussels, Belgium, has said that the European Union should take a leading role in combating airport noise levels by issuing new rules on land-use planning for its 15 member states and tighter noise restrictions for aircraft. The CEEP's comments came in response to the European Commission's November 1996 "green paper" on noise pollution, the article says.

Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport Expansion Increases Jet Traffic Over Dania Community (Apr. 19, 1997). The Sun-Sentinel reports that as part of the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport's $1.2 billion expansion, the mile-long south runway, next to the Dania community, is to be extended to 9,000 feet within the next five to seven years. The paper reports that more than 200 large jets will eventually use the runway every day.

California County Board of Supervisors Delays Action on Residential Development Near El Toro Air Station (Apr. 9, 1997). The Los Angeles Times reports that the land six miles to the south of El Toro Marine Corps Air Station -- which has been closed to development for twenty years due to noise from aircraft -- was due to be made re-eligible for development. The Orange County, California Board of Supervisors delayed that expected action on Tuesday.

Residents Oppose Wood Mulching Facility in New York Town (Apr. 8, 1997). The Buffalo News reports that a Alden (New York) Town Board public hearing on a proposed special permit for a wood chip mulching and storage facility in a rural/agricultural zone drew mostly opposition from residents.

Noise Pollution is a Hazard for Home Owners (Dec.1 1996). Redbook Magazine reports that as America's suburbs expand, so do the number of problems for homeowners. In this article, Art Levine tells "why more and more home owners are stuck in houses they can't sell—and how not to be one of them." Levine's article deals with a host of homeowner problems from environmental dangers to unforeseen development that results in noise problems. Highlighted in the extensive article is one family's problems with airport noise in Denver, Colorado, as well as two cases of homeowners in New Jersey and in Texas who are faced with noise from new highways.

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
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