Get AI Briefings, Transcripts & Alerts on Local & National Government Meetings — Forever.
Neighbors tell Wissahickon board chiller noise is causing health, nuisance concerns; ask for independent review
Loading...
Summary
Residents urged the board to order an independent engineering review and limit operation of the Wissahickon Middle School chiller after reporting a persistent tonal noise that neighbors say causes stress and impacts people with sensory issues. The board closed public comment and did not take formal action at the meeting.
Several residents used the board's public‑comment period on April 27 to press officials for action on a persistent tonal noise coming from the Wissahickon Middle School chiller.
Eric Rudolph told the board the system produces a narrow‑band whine and that the district's consultant had noted tonal noise but questions remain about whether the system was properly designed and verified. "Right now, the system is running, and it's unhealthy for students and staff," Rudolph said, urging an independent engineering review and recommending the district limit operation hours before a permanent solution is found.
Another resident said prior technical testing appeared to use measurement points he considered irrelevant to the times of greatest impact and urged the board to consider medical or health‑based advice about tonal noise's effects. "Why did [the consultant] make that decision?" the resident asked, and said that without a clear path forward the issue may need escalation to county or state review.
Board members listened but did not take immediate action during the April 27 meeting. The complaint was recorded during the second public‑comment period; the board indicated follow‑up may occur through the district's normal channels and that, when appropriate, responses would be posted on BoardDocs.
