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Neighbors press Bonita Springs council to tighten noise rules over Sugar Shack events
Summary
Multiple residents presented packets documenting low‑frequency bass vibrations and numerous complaints tied to the Sugar Shack venue adjacent to Riverside Park, asking the city to allow low‑frequency (DBC) measurements and stronger enforcement; staff accepted the materials for review.
Bonita Springs — Several nearby residents urged the City Council to revise the city’s noise ordinance and enforcement practices to address low‑frequency bass noise and vibrations from the Sugar Shack venue near Riverside Park.
Andrea Inman and other residents handed council packets documenting measured sound levels, sheriff’s office responses and a history of complaints. Inman described measurements showing DBC (low‑frequency/bass) levels she said were “3.4 points above a code violation” when measured at a distance; she said the sheriff’s office issued a citation warning that was later rescinded and that the city code, as interpreted by enforcement staff, does not allow DBC testing in the way residents believe is needed.
Seija Burgess and Doris Sexton reported repeated nights of vibration and sleep disruption; Burgess said the Sugar Shack’s roof functions like a megaphone aimed toward nearby houses and that her packets show more than 150 related complaints over a 10‑month period. Sexton said vibrations penetrate home interiors and described health and caregiving impacts for a husband with stage‑4 cancer.
Residents requested the city revise its noise ordinance to permit low‑frequency measurements, adopt a plainly audible standard (as used in other Florida counties), and set meter thresholds and measurement locations (suggested within 100 feet of the source). City staff accepted the submitted materials for review and said they will examine the packets and enforcement options.
Council did not take immediate regulatory action at the meeting; staff indicated the packets would be reviewed and followed up in subsequent staffing work and enforcement discussions.
