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Anti Federalist
01-23-2014, 04:50 PM
Gotta ban something, damn it...



Hingham Weighs Noise Ordinance That Could Technically Ban Loud Conversation

http://boston.cbslocal.com/2014/01/22/hingham-weighs-noise-ordinance-that-could-effectively-ban-loud-conversation/

HINGHAM (CBS) – Residents in Hingham just want some peace and quiet.

And in response to more than 300 noise complaints filed last year, the town’s Board of Selectmen says it’s weighing an ordinance that would restrict nighttime noise levels to 45 dB, and daytime levels at 55 dB.

“It’s really a question of giving police some tools to deal with a quality of life issue,” Hingham Selectman Chairman Bruce Rabuffo.

Violations would result in $100 to $300 fines.

The current proposal is raising some concerns. The proposed decibel levels of 45 and 55 dB would effectively outlaw use of lawn mowers, snow blowers, and tractors; it could even spark fines for loud conversations.

Rabuffo emphasized that the proposal is just that – a proposal. He hopes to start a conversation and eventually reach a consensus on noise levels.

Occam's Banana
01-23-2014, 06:30 PM
The proposed decibel levels of 45 and 55 dB would effectively outlaw use of lawn mowers, snow blowers, and tractors; it could even spark fines for loud conversations.

Rabuffo emphasized that the proposal is just that – a proposal. He hopes to start a conversation and eventually reach a consensus on noise levels.

IOW: Make an egregious proposal, tone it down after it is objected to, and end up with a new revenue stream enhancement - erm, excuse me, I mean "quality of life" enhancement ... all the while portraying yourself as the "reasonable" one who is willing to compromise and "start a conversation" ...

The Statist-fu is stong in this one.