UPDATE: Over 20 community members voiced their concerns at the Dillon Town Council meeting on February 3, 2023, regarding noise issues linked to the Dillon Amphitheater. Residents, primarily from the Neighbors of the Dillon Amphitheater group, raised alarms that proposed changes could disrupt both their living conditions and the local economy.
The meeting comes as tensions escalate around noise levels affecting residents of the Lake Cliffe Condominiums, located just 50 feet from the amphitheater. Homeowners are demanding that the council consider their proposal, which includes reducing decibel limits and limiting back-to-back shows. The council’s work session on February 17 will focus on these noise concerns and recommendations from the Parks, Recreation, Arts and Cemetery Committee.
Community members expressed deep fears that changes could undermine the amphitheater’s role in enhancing the town’s cultural and economic landscape. “The amphitheater is a major community asset with broad cultural and economic value,” stated resident Terese Berger, urging the council to involve diverse stakeholders in any decisions.
As the debate intensifies, an online post surfaced claiming a “small group of second homeowners” aims to overhaul amphitheater operations. The post alleges plans to lower sound limits, eliminate shows on consecutive nights, and restrict certain music genres. This has sparked fierce opposition from many local residents who cherish the entertainment offered by the venue.
The Neighbors of the Dillon Amphitheater made it clear that their focus is not about shutting down the venue but addressing specific noise-related issues. Their proposal seeks to limit “high-bass, high-impact shows,” asserting that these are scientifically proven to create excessive disturbances, including shaking windows and appliances.
In a passionate rebuttal, neighbor Keri Dawn Solner emphasized that the group does not want to ban music genres, refuting claims that they aim to silence the amphitheater. Instead, they have consulted with an independent audio engineer to explore solutions that could benefit both residents and the amphitheater.
Mayor Carolyn Skowyra concluded the public comment session by expressing optimism for a resolution that respects both the community’s concerns and the amphitheater’s significance. “I’m sure that we can come to some kind of agreement that is satisfactory to the residents that live nearby and also maintains all the things we love about the amphitheater,” she said.
With the next council session rapidly approaching, community members are urged to stay engaged as the debate over noise levels and amphitheater operations heats up. The outcome could significantly impact both local residents and the thriving cultural scene in Dillon.
Stay tuned for the latest developments as this situation unfolds.
