A noise exemption request was discussed at city hall this week, which prompted one Councillor to stick up for residents who feel evening outdoor concerts cause a disturbance.
Mayor Steve Black joined members of media row in being stumped at the pronunciation of the name 'DJ Bl13nd' which was the name given for a Frosh Week Concert being promoted by a group called 'Northern Events & Promotion'. He referred to the event as simply 'The DJ concert'.
The event will take place on Friday, September 9 from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. at the Archie Dillon Sportsplex. The noise exemption was requested to begin at 8 p.m.
"I'm glad to see what is requested, is to 1 a.m., because I want you to know that the odd one that has been until 2 a.m., I have received 'mucho' complaints," said Councillor Mike Doody.
Timmins has been treated to an increase in live music events this summer, including outdoor events such as BaconFest which took place in Downtown Timmins with a noise exemption until 2 a.m., as well as Rock on the River and the recent eighth edition of the Great Canadian Kayak Challenge which took place at Participark, beside the Mattagami River.
Doody said sometimes these events can cause sleepless nights for many in the community.
"In the area that the concert is being given, that neighbourhood until 2 a.m. I've received all kinds of calls whenever that happens. Sometimes when it is down by the river, and just the way the sound carries, people tell me that live way up on Cedar North and Cedar South say, 'you know, I didn't buy a ticket to the concert, but I felt I was there,'" he said.
Doody emphasized he 'didn't mind' this particular request, as it was until 1 a.m.
Councillor Mike Doody said feedback he'd received indicated many residents are unhappy with evening concerts. Andrew Autio for TimminsToday "You know 2 a.m. is, I'm finding out, is on some people, a real burden." said Doody.
Councillor Noella Rinaldo said the upcoming DJ show was nothing but a positive.
"There's been a couple of events for young people, and I think this is wonderful that these kind of events are being held. I know we've had some issues, and we're dealing with those issues and changing our bylaws to accommodate that. I applaud these people for coming forward and bringing another event to Timmins. I'm very pleased with this," she said.
Mayor Steve Black said all of the city's recent events were 'well-appreciated by many' but also said there had been some issues. He asked Police Chief John Gauthier if he'd been contacted about this particular event.
"Yes we have. We will have paid duty officers at this event, six of them," said Gauthier.
Council voted unanimously to approve the noise exemption request.
