Moving Forward From Noise Concerns at Bayfront Park

Mayor Ness: It's About Finding A Balance

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“We’re here for a serious cause, MACV, and our goal wasn’t to upset anybody,” said Jeff Arnovich with Twin Ports Nightlife.

A weekend intended for music and charity at Bayfront Park, turned into a lineup of noise complaints throughout Duluth.

“This was much more than a normal show down at Bayfront,” Duluth Mayor Don Ness said.

Mayor Ness says in order to move forward, residents and event promoters must understand the other’s perspective.

“As a hillside resident, I know that there’s going to be music in the summertime and sometimes it’s loud and that’s okay,” Ness explained. “At the same time, hopefully those putting on the shows understand that their actions also have an impact.”

Festival organizers say the stormy weather played a role.

“Basically sound waves carry with the wind,” Arnovich said.

Mayor Ness believes considering weather conditions is necessary for future outdoor concerts.

“For those residents it’s not just one night a year, and it’s not just one weekend a year,” Ness told FOX 21.

“Did the show run maybe later than it should have? Yes, it happens with live music, changeovers, sound checks,” explained Arnovich.

And as for how loud is too loud, that really seems to be up in the air, at least right now.

From the City Attorney’s office, down to the police and fire departments, no one could confirm any type of actual regulation for noise levels at Bayfront Park.

“I’m not aware of a decibel level impact or standard or regulation of any sort,” said Ness.