The Portsmouth Town Council meeting held on December 9, 2024, addressed significant community concerns regarding a proposed project that could impact local residents. The primary focus of the discussion was the anticipated noise levels associated with the project, which are estimated to reach between 55 to 70 decibels, potentially affecting the neighborhood 24 hours a day.

Residents expressed their worries about the noise, which they compared to the sound of constant conversation or a vacuum cleaner. This level of noise would starkly contrast with the current nighttime sound levels in the area, which average around 39 decibels, akin to soft whispers or rustling leaves. The projected increase in noise could disrupt the peace of the community, particularly during nighttime hours when residents expect tranquility.

Concerns were raised about the reliability of noise abatement measures that are supposed to mitigate these impacts. If these measures fail or are delayed, residents could experience even higher noise levels than anticipated. Currently, the project allows for 14 hours of unrestricted noise from 7 AM to 9 PM, which residents believe is already excessive. The extension of noise into nighttime hours was deemed unacceptable by community members.

The discussion highlighted the difference between corporate responsibilities and community obligations. While the company behind the project has a fiduciary duty to its investors, residents emphasized that the town's primary responsibility is to its people. The meeting concluded with a call for further clarification on the project's implications and a commitment to addressing the community's concerns moving forward.