Benicia City Council To Discuss New Downtown Noise Regulations

BENICIA, CA — A longstanding issue — how to balance a thriving downtown nightlife with peace and quiet for residents — is on the agenda for the Benicia City Council meeting coming up Tuesday. The council will consider proposed noise regulations that would allow outdoor entertainment downtown and in other commercial areas with a use permit. Also, council will discuss changes that would modify the maximum
noise levels and hours for amplified sound.

"The proposed regulations reflect community feedback we received about the desire to have a lively downtown that is balanced with the needs of nearby residential areas," Shawna Brekke-Read, the city's community development director, said in a statement.

As written, the proposed amendments to the municipal code would allow outdoor entertainment downtown and in other commercial areas every day, including Sundays and holidays, with a use permit.

Maximum sound levels would be based on time of day and location, and the proposed amendments directly address decibel levels along First Street. Sound levels on First Street have long been a topic of discussion in
the city.

By Bay City News Service

Photo: Shutterstock.com