HomeMy WebLinkAboutA024 - recommended steps for action to improve noise ordinance from Marily Kollasch SOME RECOM MDED STEPS FOR ACTION TO
IMP11OPE THE AMES NOISE ORDINANCE
1. Decide whether you believe undisturbed sleep should be more
carefully protected by the Ames City Code.
2. Perform tests of the noise meter in actual neighborhoods.
Consider the effects of opened windows and outdoor conditions.
Lower the 55 decibel nighttime limit to a level that allows
residents to sleep without disturbance.
3. Move the beginning of the sleeping hours to 10:00 or 11:00 p.m.
and/or prohibit sound which disturbs, injures or endangers the
quiet, comfort, repose, health, peace, or safety of persons
within, the city limits of Ames. (The final prohibition would
protect those who sleep in the daytime such as small babies
and those who have nighttime jobs.)
4. Consider measurement of noise from nearest lot line, but not
less than 25 feet from the source of noise. Retain measurement
from the nearest city property. The noise control officer
could then measure from the most appropriate spot. (This provision
would protect those with deep lots who have bedrooms toward the
back of the dwelling.)
5. Wherever possible or necessary, list exceptions. This may make
the entire noise ordinance more respected. For example, if you
do not wish me to ask for a noise permit to mow my lawn, then
provide for that exemption within the law. Such exemptions
would prevent the selective enforcement of the law.
Marilyn Kollasch
2817 Oakland
Ames, Iowa
August 16, 1983