Cave Creek may have a workable noise ordinance
by Brian DiTullio

CAVE CREEK – Town Council, after almost two years of debate, on Tuesday passed a first reading of a  compromise noise ordinance, limiting noise from commercial properties to a maximum of 75 decibels between the hours of 7:01 a.m. and 12:00 a.m.

Town Marshal Adam Stein said the new ordinance, as written, is enforceable–the sticking point of the noise ordinance previously on the books.

Call to the public brought numerous people to the podium, with business owners saying a proposed 70‑decibel limit was too restrictive and “impossible” to comply with. Concerned residents, on the other hand, generally stated noise had gotten out of control over the last few years.

Mayor Vincent Francia thanked the 26 people who spoke on both sides of the issue over a two‑hour period, then said it was time to put the matter to rest and “move on with our lives.”

An initial motion to pass the ordinance with a 70‑decibel commercial limit failed and was amended by Councilman Gilbert Lopez to read 75 decibels. The motion then passed by a 4‑3 vote, with council members Ernie Bunch, Tom McGuire and Grace Meeth dissenting.

The maximum decibel limit for commercial establishments between the hours of 12:01 a.m. and 7:00 a.m. is set at 60 decibels, while residential limits are 50 decibels from 10:01 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. and 60 decibels between 7:01 a.m. and 10:00 p.m.

Final approval follows a second reading of the ordinance at a future council meeting.