The Wrangell Planning and Zoning Commission met last Thursday, Feb. 14, to discuss proposed changes to the city’s nuisance codes. This project to update Wrangell’s code of ordinances has been in the works for some time, and a draft of the proposed changes finally came before the commission for review.
In short, the proposed changes to the code would prohibit Wrangell residents from making “loud, disturbing, or unnecessary noise” above the volume of 90 decibels between the hours of 7 a.m. and 8 p.m. on weekdays, and 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on weekends and holidays. During all other hours, the decibel level is lowered to 50. Noises that exceed the allowed decibel level, the proposed code reads, may be permitted if the noise is muffled or located within a structure, and as long as the noise does not exceed decibel levels at the property level. Violating this proposed code could lead to fines up to $500.
The proposal also lists several exemptions from the code. Noises made from emergency public works are exempt, for example. Other exemptions include parades and other city-authorized activities, sirens on emergency vehicles, church bells and school alarms, construction work and the use of power tools within acceptable hours, boat maintenance, regular operations of motor vehicles, and snow removal. Those intending to work on a project that will require loud noises at odd hours will also be allowed to apply for a temporary “excessive noise” permit with the city.
There was quite a bit of discussion about some of the exemptions listed in the proposed ordinance. Mainly, some members of the commission were concerned about the wording of the exemption on boat maintenance. The exact wording of this exemption read, “The provisions of this section shall not apply to the normal operation of any boat or vessel within harbors; or the maintenance on any vessel in a district zoned to allow this type of activity between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. weekdays; and 10:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. weekends and holidays.”
According to the wording of the exemption, Commissioner Don McConachie said, it could be interpreted that the city is banning boat maintenance outside of harbors or the boat yard. It would basically ban people from repairing their personal crafts in their own driveways. The other commissioners were in agreement on how the wording could be badly interpreted. After some debate on how to fix the exemption, or to delete it altogether, it was agreed to amend the proposal and reword the exemption.
“So the way I’m hearing this is right now you all are saying that the provisions of this section sum up vessels,” said Rushmore. “‘Number eight: Vessels. Provisions of this section shall not apply to normal operation or maintenance of a personal boat or vessel.’”
This amendment, and the proposed ordinance itself, were approved by the commission. During the meeting, the commission also gave its final approval on the “Curleyville” replat, as well as a request from Chad and Lisa Smith to divide property they own near Mt. Dewey into two lots. They also approved of a variance request by the Smith family to reduce the required width of an access easement from 30’ to 20’, and also heard an update on the ongoing land trade project between the Forest Service and Alaska Mental Health.
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