Residents press council over repeated nighttime noise; village to tighten enforcement and revise noise code

Several residents appealed to Fairport Harbor council to address persistent nighttime noise from a souvenir center and adjacent bocce court in a residential area. A resident said police reports document multiple calls since October 2024, including a November 4 incident in which officers heard loud yelling and ordered occupants to quiet down.

Police explained standard response procedures: when officers can hear the noise from the street they make contact with the source, issue warnings and typically obtain compliance. The chief acknowledged that while the department has seen improved outcomes since summer noise variances were adopted, repeated small infractions persist and are difficult to document in court.

Solicitor Jim Lyons and council members discussed proposed amendments to chapter 511 of the village code (noise ordinance) that are on second read. Lyons said the revisions simplify enforcement by setting clearer standards that reduce reliance on calibrated sound meters. He cautioned that some aspects could still be challenged in court but said the amendments aim to give police clearer grounds to issue tickets when warranted.

Council did not take a final policy vote at this meeting but confirmed the noise ordinance remains on the reading schedule. Police and staff will continue to accept resident reports and pursue enforcement under the existing and revised code once it is finalized.