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Residents tell commissioners fairgrounds events have become too loud; officials pledge to seek fixes
Summary
Multiple residents testified that rodeo sound systems and extended event schedules are producing intolerable nighttime noise that affects people with autism, sleep and daily life. Commissioners agreed to work with fairgrounds staff, vendors and BearAware to identify mitigations and to seek contractor accountability and decibel checks before next year.
Park County commissioners spent an extended portion of the meeting hearing public comment about noise from fairgrounds events and rodeos. Commissioners and staff heard from multiple residents who said noise levels have increased over recent years as events expanded and outside contractors brought larger sound systems.
"I've been working closely with the individual who has made many complaints...and she feels like nobody's listening," Jeanette Tecca told the board, adding that loud events have "affected individuals with autism" in her neighborhood. David Gunderson said the sound at a recent rodeo was "intolerable," describing noise that carries about three-quarters of a mile to his home. Several other residents suggested technical fixes such as pre-event sound checks, decibel monitoring in the stands, tighter vendor contracts and fines for violations.
Fairgrounds staff (Morgan) told the commission the first two rodeos of the season brought in outside sound systems rented by private contractors, and that most other events use the smaller in-house system. Morgan said the outside systems are substantially larger and referenced contractor systems costing "between $300,000 to $500,000." Commissioners directed staff to work with the fairgrounds board, vendors and BearAware representatives to explore options — including sound checks, contract terms and possible site changes — and sought to have mitigation work completed before next year’s major events. No formal ordinance or fine schedule was passed during the meeting; the discussion will guide staff and fairgrounds planning and potential contract changes.
The commission also acknowledged the fairness of hosting more events for county revenue while balancing residents’ quality-of-life concerns. Commissioners said they will convene workshop or listening sessions including fairgrounds staff, the fairgrounds board and community stakeholders to seek practical solutions.
