GREENWOOD — A dispute between two neighbors has spawned a citizen’s initiative to severely limit the noise levels in the community.
If approved, the ordinance could seriously impact operations at nearby Mt. Abram Ski & Ride, company officials say.
The noise ordinance is on the warrant for Saturday’s annual town meeting at 9 a.m. at the Jackson Silver Post American Legion hall, 595 Gore Road, next to the Town Office.
According to Town Manager Kimberly Sparks, the dispute developed when one homeowner was running his generator on his property on Howe Hill Road 24 hours a day. A neighbor who complained said she could not enjoy her backyard with the constant hum from the generator and asked the town to implement a noise ordinance.
Sparks said the ordinance is based on a similar one from the town of Lebanon. Daytime decibels levels are capped at 70 dBA, while nighttime levels are capped at 45 dBA. The ordinance would be enforced by the code enforcement officer.
The ordinance would exempt municipal vehicles, such as firetruck and ambulance sirens.
A potential unintended victim in the squabble is Mt. Abram, located miles away.
According to a social media post, Mt. Abram officials said the noise ordinance could severely restrict the ski area’s ability to function, including nighttime snowmaking operations and summer concerts.
“For reference, 70 decibels is approximately the noise level of a typical conversation or moderate traffic, while 45 decibels is akin to the quiet atmosphere of a library or soft whispers,” said Allie Masten, Mt. Abram’s director of marketing.
Sparks said the decibel level would be measured from the edge of the property of the person who filed the complaint.
But with their business on the line, Mt. Abram officials are taking no chances.
“While we respect and understand the intention to maintain Greenwood as a considerate and welcoming community, these restrictions would severely impact our ability to operate as a business and a community space,” Masten said.
Masten said the ordinance as written would prevent Mt. Abram from snowmaking, which is critical for skiing and supporting jobs in the area.
It would also restrict live music events at the Westside Beer Garden during the summer and may limit music at Loose Boots Lounge. “These events bring people together, foster a sense of community, and provide economic support to local businesses,” the spokesperson said.
No one has filed a noise complaint against Mt. Abram, Sparks said.
The noise ordinance is one of 32 articles on the warrant. Residents will be asked to approve a $2.2 million budget, which is approximately 14% higher than what was ratified last year, Sparks said. The budget includes $450,000 for capital improvement to Greenwood Road, $679,500 for the Highway Department, $125,082 for the transfer station and $161,300 for the Fire and Rescue department.
Voters will be asked to take $150,000 out of the Highway Department Equipment Reserve Account in order to purchase a 2026 Western Star 47X truck. That vehicle will replace a 10-year-old truck.
The meeting begins at 9 a.m. at
Selectman Norman Milliard is running for reelection.
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