Staunton officials announced today that a planned public hearing on a noise ordinance amendment has been postponed. The deferral is designed to explore other possible options.
The previously proposed draft amendment, to be advertised for public hearing, would have provided a cut-off time of 11:30 p.m. for outdoor music. There have been numerous complaints this year as a result of outdoor bands performing outside until as late as 2 a.m., raising questions about impact on neighbors and neighboring properties and businesses.
As one member of City Council who has been a strong supporter of downtown businesses, Vice Mayor David Metz, said, “I want to see what other arrangements can be made to solve the problem. As much as I enjoy music and support the local arts community, I believe everyone, including our tourist guests, is reasonably entitled to a good night’s sleep. But I remain open to—and welcome— exploring other options to resolve the matter”.
Mayor Lacy King said, “Council is looking for a potential win-win solution to this issue, which has so far eluded us. I hope further dialogue and compromise will help mediate the problem, possibly without the immediate need for a new ordinance. We all take pride in the vitality of our downtown area, and I fully support Vice Mayor Metz’s open approach to exploring other options.”
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Chris Graham
