Moses Lake business owner seeks change in noise law

MOSES LAKE - A local bar owner is trying to persuade the Moses Lake City Council to change the city noise ordinance to allow late-night outdoor activities for downtown businesses.

Travis Laibl, owner of the Sand Bar on West Broadway Avenue., asked the city council during its last meeting for limited, scheduled weekend events later in the evenings, including outdoor bands.

Laibl said he has not had loud outside events in the past year and a half because of fear of noise complaints. Not having those events has "severely diminished" his income and ability to stay in business, he explained. He said he only received one noise complaint in the past when he did hold outdoor events. He added because the business is so close to the lake, the sound travels across.

The current ordinance does not allow sounds originating from a band session, tavern operation or social gathering that create a public nuisance or disturbance. Violations can result in fines.

Laibl provided example amendments for the council to consider, including allowing noise from commercial business in the downtown area between the hours of 10 p.m. and 12 a.m. between the months of May and September.

Added to this, businesses would be required to apply for and purchase a commercial outdoor amplified noise permit, similar to Spokane's policy.

Currently, city sanctioned events, including the Summer Concert Series, are exempt from the noise ordinance, which Laibl pointed out go later in the evening. Spencer Grigg, with the Parks and Recreation Department, said the city received noise complaints in the past relating to the Summer Concert Series.

Council member Karen Liebrecht said she lives a far distance away from where the concert series is located and can hear the music "loud and clear."

Laibl stated the change in policy would have a tremendous effect on his ability to stay viable in the community and keep his staff of 15 people employed.

The city council will address the issue again at a later meeting. They plan to look at ordinances from other communities.