Council previews amendment to 'disturbing the peace' code to address amplified sound near homes

City attorney/staff member Graham presented a preview of an amendment to the city's disturbing‑the‑peace ordinance (Ordinance No. 3901) to create a clear, objective standard for recurring amplified sound from public assembly venues near residences.

Under the draft language staff showed the ordinance would apply to new places of public assembly within 300 feet of residential property and would use a 'plainly audible inside a residence' standard when amplified sound continues for more than 10 minutes. Graham emphasized the amendment is content neutral and regulates volume and duration rather than the nature of speech or music.

Councilors asked about churches and similar institutions; Graham noted an exemption remains for bells and chimes used for religious services, national celebrations, or public holidays. Councilor 10 moved to set the preview ordinance for the Dec. 16 meeting for formal consideration and that motion was seconded and put to roll call.