6.28.2022 Committee on Public Safety

Fall River Government TV Jun 29, 2022 YouTube Report Issue

The Committee on Public Safety convened to address ongoing noise complaints from residents concerning the Fall River Coin Operated Car Wash located at 1225 Dwelly Street. Residents, including Vanessa Arruda of 1227 Dwelly Street and landlord Michelle Costa, detailed disturbances caused by loud music, individuals congregating, and the constant noise from vacuums, particularly one situated approximately 20.4 feet from a residential property. Ms. Arruda, who had recently recovered from cancer, described the noise as a significant disruption to her recovery and daily life, stating she had called the police numerous times, though records only showed three complaints over three years. Ms. Costa reported losing two tenants due to the noise. Councilor Peltier expressed strong concerns, advocating for the car wash to be closed and chained off between 10 PM and 7 AM. John Duff, the car wash manager, stated the business has been operating for 35 years without prior complaints from neighbors, attributing the current issues to a new resident. He mentioned having already implemented measures such as shutting off change machines at 8 PM, which resulted in a loss of income, and posting 'no loud music' signs. Building Commissioner Glenn Hathaway confirmed he had spoken with the manager and observed the site, while Captain Barton Castro of the Fall River Police Department reported that officers conducted 26 business checks at various hours between June 15th and June 24th, finding no problems at those specific times. Captain Castro also noted the police department does not possess decibel meters. Assistant Corporation Council Gary Howard clarified that the city's noise ordinance prohibits noises that menace health or disturb sleep between 10 PM and 7 AM, but does not specify decibel levels. Following extensive discussion, the car wash manager voluntarily agreed to shut off the two vacuums closest to the residential property between 10 PM and 7 AM. This agreement was reached as a trial measure to alleviate the noise issues. Councilor Peltier, however, expressed skepticism, calling it a "band-aid approach." Ultimately, the committee decided to withdraw the resolution, with the understanding that if the problems persist, the matter could be revisited. The minutes from August 24, 2021, and October 20, 2021, were also accepted.

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