Committee questions decibel-based noise rewrite, asks for clearer enforcement approach

The Public Safety and Quality of Life Committee reviewed a proposed rewrite of the borough noise ordinance, which would add specific prohibited acts and daytime/nighttime decibel thresholds tied to receiving land uses. The solicitor said the draft combined language from nearby municipalities and added measurable criteria for court enforcement, but several board members said the draft is confusing and needs simplification before a public hearing.

Law enforcement and staff flagged practical enforcement issues. Police Chief Josh Lee cautioned against routine use of decibel meters by police because of equipment, certification and training requirements: "I would caution against using any type of decibel meter or suggesting the police use any type of decibel meter," he said, noting certification and courtroom-testimony complications. Building and housing staff emphasized the draft is intended to address continuous environmental sources of noise (for instance, generator noise at industrial sites) and said consultants could be called for technical readings. Committee members also asked for clearer redlines and for examples that show what 60–65 decibels sound like in borough settings; Anne Carroll of Civic Action Southeast urged attention to how thresholds work in attached housing. The committee agreed to keep the draft in committee and return it next month after additional review and stakeholder input.