By Lisa Carolin
Chelsea City Council’s scheduled discussion to consider an amendment to the city’s noise ordinance created a stir among residents and business owners during public comment at the July 15 meeting.
Residents who spoke live on West Middle Street, Summit Street, South Street, and North Main Street, and some expressed concerns — already experiencing too much noise including trucks, trains, and factory noise, preferring the peace and quiet of a residential community.
Several business owners also spoke during public comment and talked about the current requirement of closing at 10 p.m. as “handcuffing businesses” and sending people out of Chelsea who would otherwise contribute to the local economy.
Community Development Director, Paul Montagno, of Carlisle/Wortman Associates, Inc. said that it might make the Chelsea community as a whole more attractive to other businesses looking to move to the area if the business days didn’t wrap up at 10 p.m..
Council members talked about the possibility of compromises when it comes to how many days a week hours would be extended as well as monitoring decibel levels to make sure sound levels are regulated.
It was suggested that the public discussion regarding the benefits and concerns of amending the noise ordinance be continued.
City council members also approved (6-0 Mayor Jane Pacheco absent) the appointment of Laura Baker to the Chelsea Planning Commission for a second term ending June 30, 2027.
More volunteers are still needed for TimberTown Reimagined, which officially begins in August. Anyone interested in signing up can go to the website https://www.timbertownchelsea.org/volunteer for more information.
Chelsea City Council meets next on Monday, Aug. 5, at 7 p.m.
