Proposed changes to North Augusta’s noise ordinance were reviewed by councilmembers at Monday night’s City Council meeting.
The revised section deals specifically with Riverside Village and SRP Park.
The current noise ordinance restricts loud music from 10 p.m. to 7 a.m., and use of loudspeakers or amplifiers from 10:30 p.m. to 7 a.m.
Initially, the revision called for moving the cut-off time to midnight on Fridays and Saturdays. However, several councilmembers were concerned that was too late and suggested 11 p.m.
Ultimately, the council settled on 11:30 p.m. and the ordinance passed on first reading.
MORE: Dealing with Growth and Noise in North Augusta
The revised section includes an exemption for GreenJackets week-night baseball games which can run late and sometimes include a fireworks display.
The current ordinance remains in effect for Riverside Village and the stadium Monday through Friday. The revision does, however, give the city administrator and deputy administrator authority to grant a special license for events on weeknights.
Before the regular meeting began, the North Augusta council held its first “Power Hour,” a time for people to ask questions or talk about concerns not included on the meeting agenda.
Five people took the opportunity to speak to councilmembers. Topics included parking issues in Riverside Village and near Calhoun Park and concerns about pedestrian safety where the Greeneway crosses Pisgah Road.
Dana Lynn McIntyre is a Staff Reporter with The Augusta Press. You can reach her at dana@theaugustapress.com.
