A quote by Andrea Bocelli, a famous Italian tenor is that:

“Even in the most beautiful music there are some silences so we can witness the importance of silence. Silence is more important than ever, as life today is full of noise. We speak a lot about environmental pollution but not enough about noise pollution.”

Minnesota Statutes 2012 Chapter 116.06 Subdivision 15 and 16 defines Noise and Noise Limits that Greenwood Township is required to follow. They are:

Subd. 15. Noise.

“Noise” means any sound not occurring in the natural environment, including, but not limited to, sounds emanating from aircraft and highways, and industrial, commercial, and residential sources.

Subd. 16. Noise pollution.

“Noise pollution” means the presence in the outdoor atmosphere of any noise or combination of noises in such quantity, at such levels, of such nature and duration or under such conditions as could potentially be injurious to human health or welfare, to animal or plant life, or to property, or could interfere unreasonably with the enjoyment of life or property.

Also, I believe that items (c) and (d) of Minneapolis Noise Ordinance No. 97 or 102 Chapter 389.10 states the purpose clearly:

389.10. Findings:

(c) Individuals are not required to welcome unwanted noise into their own homes and there simply is no right to force unwanted noise into the home of an unwilling listener and there is a compelling interest in prohibiting such noise on a content neutral basis.

(d) Effective control and elimination of excessive noise is essential to the health and welfare of the city's inhabitants and to the conduct of the normal pursuits of life, including recreation and communication.

So, Greenwood does not have to have a specific ordinance dealing with noise pollution issues, The state of Minnesota has one.

Marcie Moe

Lake Vermilion, Minn.