Abbotsford residents voice concerns over disregard for noise ordinances

A complaint raised at the Abbotsford City Council meeting on Nov. 7 has the city taking action to potentially increase its fines for noise violations within city limits.

First Street resident Suzanne Hopperdietzel expressed her concerns over the mental health of her, her husband and neighboring residents after numerous noise complaints have come from a building at 110 N. First Street.

Hopperdietzel made mention of many residents who complained about the noise and even handed the council members letters from area residents who had complaints about the noise.

Hopperdietzel said the occupants of the building in question have had a “complete disregard for the wellbeing of the residents of the commercial district.” She said the music is so loud that the walls of her business shake at all hours of the evening and night.

According to Hopperdietzel, the police have been called multiple times to administer citations but the occupants have been more than willing to pay the citations and continue to play the loud music. She said one night, police were called multiple times and gave out eight citations.

“Eight citations were issued on Saturday night for this business,” Hopperdietzel said. “After the first one was still issued, while the police officer was still out there and because the citation was only $98, they cranked it up. [The officers] came back seven more times to issue citations until about 1 a.m.”

She urged the council to increase the fine amount or set a limit on how many noise complaints can happen before the city gets involved.

Mayor Jim Weix said the city has been looking into the matter with their attorney to see what can be done from a legal standpoint about the ignorance of law.

City Administrator Josh Soyk said the council will discuss the matter at its November 23 meeting to discuss an ordinance amendment. The amendment could include higher fines for parties involved and/or fining the property owner instead of the occupants.

Other business

n The city approved the purchase of a new ambulance by the Central Fire and EMS District.

n The council set the budget hearing date for Dec. 5 beginning at 5:45 p.m. in the council chambers.

n A permit for the Christmas Parade to be held Dec. 3 was approved.