Middlesex Board adopts replacement noise ordinance after public hearing

The Middlesex County Board of Supervisors adopted a repeal-and-replace noise ordinance following a public hearing on April 7. County Attorney Heather W. Lewis presented the ordinance, explaining it is distance-based and prohibits some activities at restricted hours while outlawing others at all hours; the Board voted to adopt the ordinance by roll call.

Several residents urged the Board to tighten enforceability and scope during public comment. Earl Simpson of Wake described persistent barking on his road; Mark Pentalescu of Hartfield warned of health impacts, saying, “this behavior management problem has negatively affected my health.” Marianne Willis urged the Board to consider enforceability, and George Snead questioned whether a proposed 100-foot distance for refuge collection vehicles between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m. is adequate. Following discussion, Supervisor Wayne H. Jessie moved to adopt the ordinance as written; Supervisor Randy Crittenden seconded and the motion carried with all members voting aye.

The ordinance replaces provisions the County Attorney said were no longer current after related case law developments. The Board provided no amendments at the meeting; the motion passed and the ordinance will be filed according to the County’s standard adoption procedures. The Board closed public comment at 7:23 p.m. and adjourned later that evening.