ABINGDON, Va. (WCYB) — A new proposed noise ordinance in Abingdon is continuing to spark reaction.
In Thursday’s follow-up, News 5’s Natalea Hillen found out town leaders said they’re now looking at revisions to the original proposal.
Town leaders originally wanted to reduce noise levels to 65 dB at the edge of the property where the noise is taking place, starting after 6 p.m.
The idea sparked concerns from some in the community, especially local musicians.
If they impose this, they will kill this town, said Local musician, William Skeens.
Local musicians William Skeens, Ella Patrick, and Jenna Greene said live music has become a big part of Abingdon’s community and economy.
I am concerned for the music scene being in danger, said Local musician, Jenna Greene. Abingdon has grown in its music community. There’s like five or six awesome venues here that have popped up, said Musician, Ella Patrick.
Skeens said the proposal could impact how local musicians make a living.
This is how we put food on the table, Skeens said.
Meanwhile, resident Blake Baker lives near Main Street and said loud music late at night has been an issue.
They started doing karaoke outside and I know the owner and I called him up and I was like you know Frank Sinatra is not on your deck and somebody is singing New York, New York like they’re in my bedroom, said Abingdon resident, Blake Baker.
Baker said he supports live music in Abingdon but believes 11 p.m. would be a reasonable time for a noise limit.
Abingdon Town Manager Mike Cochran said the original proposal of 6 p.m. and 65 decibels was never meant to shut down live music, but to help create a clear way to measure sound levels.
We want people to come here to enjoy themselves, enjoy outside entertainment, music things like that are all part of what we do here in Abington, said Abingdon Town Manager, Mike Cochran.
Cochran even recorded a demonstration showing what 65 decibels sounds like from a distance.
But after hearing community feedback, town leaders said they are now looking at changes.
We looked at other communities that have a lot of entertainment going on. Asheville has a lot of entertainment going and their sound limit is 72 decibels, said Cochran.
The updated proposal would raise the limit on loud music to 72 decibels up until 11 p.m.
Not 72 here, but 72 150 feet away, Cochran said.
After that, it would be 67 decibels through around 7a.m.
I think that would be a solid compromise, Cochran said. Comment with Bubbles
BE THE FIRST TO COMMENT
The second reading of the proposed ordinance is scheduled for March 19th at 2:30 p.m.