07-13-81 Residential Neighborhoods

Home Browse Search

flnmmintr pnrt Mu the (IInmmnn Olounril of#iEe QJtig of .out lira: RESIDENTIAL NEIGHBORHOODS COMMITTEE The July 13, 1981, meeting of the Residential Neighborhoods Committee was called to order by Councilman Beverlie J.Beck at 4: 00 p.m. in the Conference Room of Century Center. Persons in attendance included: Councilmen Dombrowski, McGann, Zielinski, Taylor, Crone, Beck, Szymkowiak, and Voorde; Walter Kopczynski, Marchmont Kovas, Richard Hill,Richar:d- Jasinski,County Commissioner; Kathy Barnard, Jerelyn O'Connor, James Beck, Joseph DeKever, Mishawaka City Councilman; . Attorney Carolyn Pfotenhauer; Brad Garton, Noise Coordinator of the Indiana Cities and Towns, Corporal Blume, Shaun Spite, Meredith Spite, Ed Meehan, Kathleen Cekanski-Farrand, and member of the News Media. Councilman Beck announced that the purpose of the meeting was to discuss Bill No. 46-81, the Light Motor Vehicle Noise Control Bill and to observe a demonstration of noise control devices. Chairman Beck then introduced Mr. Bradford Garton, Noise Control Coordinator-of the Indiana Association of Cities and Towns. Mr. Garton then reviewed the background of the model law which Bill No. 46-81_ is patterned after. He noted that the law had been developed by the Enviromental Protection Office. Approximately 4,300 cars were tested resulting, in an 80 (dba) decibel level being determined as the maximum reasonable noise level for light motor vehicles. He highlighted that newly manufactured mufflers must meet a 78 dba level when coming off the assemblyline. He recommended e ifo.rcement at 86 dba. Mr. Garton then highlighted the very successful enforcement programs in other Indiana cities. In Evansville, the law has been in effect for 13 days with 81 citationsialready being issued. Fort Wayne has had the law in effect since July of 1980 with a minimum fine of $150. 00. They have received national recognition for their program. He noted that the law has been challenged and judicially upheld in Fort Wayne and Kokomo. Mr. Garton stressed that the law is designed to catch individuals who have modified cars and motorcycles; those who basically do not care about the peace and quiet of their neighborhoods. A side effect which has resulted from this ordinance in most cities, is that it is promoting safe driving habits, and greater awareness of noise. The equipment was then shown to the Committee. The units average $1, 000. 00 in cost. The Indiana Association of Cities and Town has a policy of loaning out the equipment for a minimum period of two months. Additionally they will train the police officers in the use of the equipment, and assist in any trial litigation matters. It was suggested that six units wo d e >needed one for each traffic vehicle. • i 'mu 1R[at seal. /YRLIiHIN6 CO.