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Neighbors tell Page County planners Speedway noise is harming homes, wildlife; commissioners ask for clearer enforcement options
Summary
Residents described repeated high decibel noise from the racetrack, reported measurements as high as the high-80s, and urged the commission not to expand event days or sound limits without enforceable mitigation. Staff said the applicant declined a new noise study; commissioners asked staff to compile previous permits and to seek technical expertise to clarify enforceability.
Scores of residents urged the Planning Commission to address longstanding noise and enforcement problems at the local Speedway instead of approving broader operational flexibility. Neighbors presented on-site sound measurements, cited wildlife and health impacts, and asked the commission to require mitigation and clearer, enforceable standards before any expansion.
Kent Folsom, who said he lives about 0.6 miles from the track, reported having sound-monitoring data and told commissioners, "On my last graph ... they went up to, nearly 87, I believe they were. That's loud." Others described similar readings and recounted that the county's comprehensive plan emphasizes preserving rural character and minimizing incompatible land uses. Staff reported that the Speedway applicant is not willing to provide an updated noise study: "I have spoke with the applicant, and he is not in favor of that," the staff presenter told the commission. Commissioners repeatedly asked staff to compile prior SUPs and BZA records and to obtain technical advice about modern noise monitoring and mitigation options before considering changes to allowed event days, hours, or decibel thresholds. Several commissioners said they need an expert explanation to understand what monitoring and mitigation are practicable and enforceable.
