Oriental caps noise, fans of live music vow protest

March 4, 2009 by Jeff Aydelette

Oriental adopted decibel limits for live music after a three-hour debate Tuesday night. Commissioner Nancy Inger proved to be the swing vote, joining Commissioners David Cox and Kathy Kellam in the 3 to 2 tally. Commissioners Sherrill Styron and Candy Bohmert opposed the measure.

Readings taken at an occupied dwelling, from 9 a.m. until 9 p.m. cannot exceed 65 decibels, with a ‘plus or minus’ fluctuation of two decibels. At night until morning, from 9 p.m. until 9 a.m., the limit drops to 60 decibels -- again with a minor variance either way.

Proponents stress the new standards are ‘complaint driven.’ If no one complains, no violation occurs. Venues may apply for up to four permits per year that allow five-decibel increases in the new limits.

The standards are a first for the waterfront community and come in response to repeated complaints from a small group of residents who live within several hundred feet of the Tiki Bar at the Oriental Marina Inn.

Customers of the popular gathering spot, led by proprietors Tom and Cathy McIlhenny, object to the new ordinance. Town resident Kip Nicholas is reportedly organizing a Friday afternoon demonstration to protest the revisions to an existing noise ordinance.

“We hope to gather about 5 p.m. at Lou Mac Park and parade to the Tiki Bar,” she said.

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