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Pender County delays implementation of recent noise ordinance amendment after public outcry
Summary
Following extensive public comment, commissioners voted to withdraw or delay the amendment to the county noise ordinance and to pursue additional legal review and community engagement.
The Pender County Board of Commissioners voted on Aug. 4 to delay and withdraw the recent amendment to the county noise ordinance and to bring the issue back for further review, legal analysis and citizen engagement.
The motion to withdraw the amendment was made by Commissioner Tate after numerous members of the public urged the board to hold town‑hall style meetings on the noise ordinance and other major proposals. Commissioners said they had received extensive public input calling for more transparency and direct opportunities for residents to ask questions and get answers from commissioners and staff.
The board directed staff to pursue additional legal review, to convene further committee review and to organize opportunities for public comment before the amendment is reintroduced. During the discussion county leadership noted the existing noise ordinance remains enforceable; county staff said the sheriff’s department enforces current provisions such as post‑11 p.m. loud‑music complaints.
The motion passed on a roll call with one member recorded in opposition. Commissioners said they wanted to revisit the issue to ensure clarity about enforcement, exemptions, and to avoid imposing countywide penalties to address a dispute that began in a single community.
