Raleigh City Council approves noise ordinance aimed at Glenwood South complaints

RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- For the past two weeks, City of Raleigh leaders have discussed the city's new noise ordinance, which greatly affects Glenwood South.

On Tuesday, the Raleigh City Council gave approval to the updated ordinance.

The vote comes as residents in Glenwood South and other neighborhoods have voiced their frustrations with the noise from bars and restaurants. However, the policy extends to more than just Glenwood South.

During public comment last week, people in one Raleigh neighborhood asked the council to consider factors other than noise levels, such as topography.

Residents who spoke to ABC11 said they understand that businesses need to make money, but on the other hand, there should be a balance between profit and peace.

"I can't stop them from having the entertainment. But their entertainment has to stop at a certain time for the convenience of the neighborhood," said resident Gene Earp, who lives directly behind Tap Yard Raleigh, a bar that has music and trivia nights.

Another Raleigh resident, identified only as Matthew, said he knew what to expect when he moved into the neighborhood. He said Tap Yard has worked to be mindful of the community,

"They knew they were going to have a sound issue because they have bands play and Zach (Medford), who owns it, made a lot of effort to make sure that everybody in the neighborhood was happy," he said.

In Tuesday's meeting, city leaders said it will likely take the council some time to adopt a so-called perfect policy. However, Mayor Janet Cowell called this a great start toward meeting the needs of residents and business owners.

Medford agreed.

"Hopefully, these new guidelines will help give people, you know, a better idea of what to expect and what they can do," he said. "But it does remain to be seen. We got to see if the proof is in the pudding at the end of the day."

The new plan will use a decibel-based system to determine whether a business is too loud. The proposal would set decibel limits depending on time and day of the week, as well as location in the city.

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It's not yet clear who will measure the decibels.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates and watch for the latest on Eyewitness News beginning at 4 p.m.