Colfax leaders press for help on train-generator noise after Perkins House complaint

Colfax Mayor Retzer and council took up complaints about noise from a train-engine generator and read a prepared letter to Senator Michael Baumgartner asking for assistance. Resident Hanna Nolan read a letter from Perkins House Outreach Coordinator Jill Gfeller describing “loud humming and noise disruption it is causing for both volunteers and visitors at the Perkins House,” and the council directed staff to pursue intergovernmental options.

Retzer said the council is actively working to find a lasting remedy and asked for patience with the process. “We are committed to finding a long-term solution,” Retzer said. Councilmember Mackleit described outreach efforts, including a March 2 phone conversation with Representative Joe Schmick and a later DOT Zoom meeting; Mackleit said DOT will meet with the railroad to discuss the issue. Public Works (Hammer) noted that “there are no state regulations for the railroad, it is all federal,” and the council framed next steps as coordination among DOT, the railroad and federal contacts rather than a purely local regulatory fix.

Why it matters: Perkins House volunteers and visitors say the humming affects an active community site, and council action seeks external coordination rather than local regulation. The council asked the letter to note the problem began in September and will continue follow-up through DOT contacts and constituent-elected representatives.

What’s next: DOT will meet with the railroad and Councilmember Mackleit said he will follow up; City staff will continue to pursue contacts at state and federal levels and consult as issues evolve.