The City Commission held a special meeting on September 21 to consider revisions to Sarasota's sound ordinance, following extensive work by the City's acoustical consultants and considerable public input.

A citywide survey attracted approximately 1,500 responses, demonstrating the importance of this issue to residents and businesses.

The Commission addressed several important matters, including sound measurement procedures, enforcement provisions, and excessive vehicle noise. Among the issues discussed were allowing enforcement without requiring an individual citizen complaint and addressing excessively loud vehicle exhaust and engine revving.

As downtown continues to grow, achieving a reasonable balance between an active downtown environment and residents' quality of life remains an important consideration.

Further action on the ordinance and its enforcement provisions will be important to residents and businesses throughout the city.