2nd District meeting on Wednesday

There will 2nd District meeting this Wednesday night, June 22, at 5:30PM at the Main Library on Franklin Street. Given the focus of Mr.Samuel’s recent newsletter, expect the proposed new noise ordinance (PDF) to be a topic on the agenda. Over the past 18 months a thoughtful and dedicated work group collaborated to review and […]

June 21, 2011; 8:39 AM • by Fan of the Fan

Over the past 18 months a thoughtful and dedicated work group collaborated to review and revise the noise control policies of the City. Consultations with experts in sound from The Medical College of Virginia, sound demonstrations, advice on sound level meters and advice from attorneys with expertise in noise law gave insight. Noise laws from all over the United States were studied and evaluated. The “devil’s advocate” played a large role in every discussion.

The new Sound Ordinance will be introduced to City Council (read into the record) in June where it will be sent to the Public Safety Committee. There will be opportunity for public comment at The Public Safety which meets on the 3rd Monday of the month at the Police Academy on Graham Road from 5 – 6:30 p.m. It will be heard by City Council later in the summer and another public hearing will be held. Please call the office and/or look for announcements for specific dates.

The most important thing for residents to understand about the Sound Ordinance is that noise level assessments are not measured at the source of the noise. The decibel level is measured from the property that is having a problem with a disturbing noise.

This new “Sound Ordinance” can be accessed on my website at charlesrsamuels.com or call or email my City Hall office at the numbers listed below and a copy can be sent directly to you.

Please send comments and suggestions to me on my website or at charles.samuels@richmondgov.com.