On September 13, 2023, the lively atmosphere at Common Fields in Corvallis was abruptly interrupted when a noise complaint led to police intervention, halting a Cuban salsa dance event. This incident sparked significant community response, resulting in the Corvallis City Council unanimously suspending the local noise ordinance just two days later.
Common Fields, located on Southwest Third Street, is well-known for its vibrant live entertainment scene, attracting a diverse crowd. Following the police call that night, approximately 1,500 residents, including Sami Al-Abdrabbuh, signed a petition urging the council to review the noise regulations, which many perceived as outdated and selectively enforced.
Al-Abdrabbuh, who serves on the Corvallis School Board but spoke as a concerned citizen, articulated the community’s frustration, stating, “We have seen the noise ordinance being applied in ways that really hurt me.” His remarks highlighted the broader implications of the noise law, suggesting that it could suppress community expression and engagement.
The situation escalated as city officials reported that the police had responded to noise complaints from the same neighbor a total of twelve times this year. Despite these repeated calls, no fines were levied against Common Fields. Corvallis City Manager Mark Shepard confirmed that all complaints originated from one resident, who felt that their concerns were not adequately addressed.
During the council meeting, Mayor Charles Maughan emphasized the reactive nature of local law enforcement, noting, “We’re complaint-driven,” and reiterated that the police were fulfilling their duties by responding to the noise complaints. He acknowledged the subjective nature of noise perception, having reviewed video footage of the event that he believed was not excessively loud.
The city’s noise ordinance, which restricts sound levels from businesses, has not been updated in over 40 years. Currently, commercial sounds cannot be heard more than 50 feet away without a permit, while residential noise must not be “plainly audible” between the hours of 10 p.m. and 7 a.m. Maughan pointed out the limitations of such regulations, noting, “A live band, just the drums alone unamplified, would be heard clear as day from that distance.”
Although the council suspended the enforcement of the noise law for commercial venues, private residences remain under the same restrictions. This decision drew mixed responses from council members. Councilor Charlyn Ellis expressed her support for the ordinance, citing the need for residents near the college to maintain their quality of life.
Councilors also voiced their commitment to revising the ordinance, with plans to create a more equitable framework that balances the needs of businesses and residents. Council President Paul Shaffer raised concerns about potential unintended consequences of the suspension, highlighting the complexities of managing community expectations.
The suspension of the noise law particularly benefits Common Fields, which was founded in 2020 amid the pandemic as a space for community connection through food and live events. Cherish Oliver, one of the business owners, emphasized the venue’s role in fostering community spirit. “Our dream for our business has always been one of community, local artists, and giving back,” she stated.
Community support for Common Fields was evident during the council meeting, with numerous patrons voicing their concerns about the noise ordinance’s implications for local culture. One supporter, Cecily Feudo, underscored the venue’s importance during challenging times, advocating for a variety of spaces that accommodate community engagement.
As the council prepares to update the noise regulations, residents and business owners alike hope for a resolution that respects both the vibrancy of local entertainment and the comfort of the community. Cherish Oliver urged for a shift from subjective noise standards to measurable decibel levels, advocating for a fairer approach that would benefit both businesses and residents.
The council’s actions reflect a growing recognition of the need to adapt local laws to better serve the community’s interests while acknowledging the realities of urban living. As the dialogue continues, the future of Common Fields and similar establishments may hinge on the outcome of these critical discussions.