UPDATE: The City of Sacramento is urgently requesting public feedback on a significant update to its entertainment sound management policies. Residents and local businesses are encouraged to participate in shaping the new Community Sound Management Framework, aimed at enhancing how sound from entertainment venues is regulated across the city.
The initiative, developed by Sound Music Cities, is based on input from over 1,100 survey responses and insights from the Sacramento Music Census. Don Pitts, president of Sound Music Cities, emphasized that the community has shown a clear desire for changes in the management of entertainment sound.
The drafted framework proposes innovative strategies, including the integration of Sound Impact Plans into permit processes and the appointment of an official responsible for ensuring consistency across city departments. These changes aim to improve communication, enforce source-based sound measurements, and manage low-frequency sounds better to address pervasive bass complaints.
Megan Van Voorhis, director of Convention and Cultural Services, stated that the framework seeks to strike a balance between residents’ quality of life and the city’s vibrant cultural activities. The proposed adjustments are designed to create a more harmonious environment for both residents and entertainment providers.
Community meetings will take place on December 8, 9, and 10, 2023, where residents, venue owners, and event organizers can voice their opinions on the new sound management framework. Dustin Hollingsworth, assistant director of Convention and Cultural Services, noted that this input will be crucial in guiding the framework’s final adoption in 2026.
All relevant documents, including the full Community Sound Management Framework, the Sacramento Music Census, and the sound policy review, are available on the City’s official website for public access. This is a pivotal moment for Sacramento, as the city’s approach to sound management could significantly impact the local entertainment scene and community well-being.
Residents are encouraged to participate actively in these discussions to ensure their voices are heard. This opportunity to shape Sacramento’s sound policies is critical for fostering a creative environment that respects the needs of all community members. Don’t miss the chance to make your opinion count!
