Milton Council discusses noise limits for proposed church activities building

The City of Milton City Council held a regular meeting on May 5, 2025, where significant discussions centered around a proposed use permit for Ebenezer United Methodist Church to operate a new activities building. The meeting addressed concerns from both the church representatives and local residents regarding noise levels, traffic management, and the overall impact on the community.

The church, which has been a longstanding institution in Milton since 1853, aims to enhance its facilities to accommodate various events, including weddings and community gatherings. A key point of contention was the proposed hours for outdoor activities and the acceptable noise levels. Council members debated the implications of amplified sound, with suggestions to limit outdoor amplified music to a maximum of 45 decibels and to cease all outdoor activities by 8 PM. This proposal aimed to balance the church's operational needs with the concerns of nearby residents about potential disturbances.

Council discussions highlighted the importance of maintaining property values and the quality of life for local homeowners. Several council members expressed hesitance about allowing extended outdoor activities, emphasizing the need for restrictions to prevent noise complaints that could arise from events held late into the evening. The church representatives indicated a willingness to comply with these restrictions, suggesting that they could limit outdoor activities to ensure community comfort.

Traffic management was another critical topic, with plans to have a dedicated police officer on-site for events exceeding 100 attendees to ensure safe traffic flow. The council also discussed the potential for a future roundabout to alleviate traffic concerns in the area.

The meeting concluded with a consensus on several operational conditions, including limiting outdoor amplified sound and establishing clear communication protocols should the church discontinue its use of the facility. The council's decisions reflect a commitment to fostering community engagement while addressing the concerns of residents, ensuring that the church can operate effectively within the parameters set by the council. Further discussions and follow-up actions are expected as the council finalizes the details of the use permit.