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Neighborers complain of early-morning construction noise, dust and debris; city staff say enforcement occurred and code gaps exist
Summary
A resident said contractors began work at about 5:45 a.m., creating dust and debris that may affect storm sewers and health; the safety service director said police responded, inspectors contacted the project manager, and staff will pursue ordinance changes to address dust control and mowing enforcement.
A resident living beside the Madison Reserve development told London City Council contractors were operating as early as 5:45 a.m., stirring dust and leaving material in the roadway and storm sewers.
"Monday, this Monday at 05:45 in the morning, his contractors were out there, moving construction equipment around, getting it staged. 05:45 in the morning, I'm getting woke up by the beeps of the construction equipment," Matt Daley said during public comment, adding that dust has obscured visibility and is affecting nearby properties.
Why it matters: Residents said dust and uncollected material are entering storm sewers and degrading sidewalks and right-of-way; the council said it needs enforceable code language to address dust and contractor cleanup.
Safety service director Steve told the council police responded to Daley's complaint and that city staff spoke to the site manager. "Police did send somebody out. They talked to them," he said. Steve described permitted loading/unloading hours and potential enforcement: "The requirement for loading, unloading equipment ... is 10 p to 7 a. They clearly, outside of that time period, they were told him they talked to him ... If they do it again, they can be cited. That's a criminal offense."
Steve acknowledged the city does not currently have an ordinance that specifically requires dust control at construction sites and said staff plan to bring changes to zoning and building rules to fill the gap. Councilors and staff discussed asking contractors for mitigation (water trucks, sprayers) and requiring performance or maintenance bonds to ensure repairs where work has damaged sidewalks or utilities.
Next steps: Staff said they hold monthly meetings with developers and contractors to review concerns and will pursue ordinance changes and permit-language revisions to address dust control, maintenance bonds and clearer timelines for mowing enforcement. Residents were encouraged to report problems to the appropriate offices so staff can respond quickly.
