Charlotte County is stepping back into the fray as commissioners take a second look at ongoing noise complaints from residents in Waterford Estates about the nearby sheriff’s office firing range. The recent noise testing revealed that during regular training, noise levels reached an average of 77 decibels—about as loud as heavy traffic. While county staff reassured everyone that these levels fall within health guidelines for short-term noise exposure, that hasn’t quelled the frustrations of residents hoping for some peace and quiet.
As the commissioners gather to discuss this noisome issue, some potential solutions are on the table, although space limitations make it tricky. Dense vegetation could dampen some sound, but at only six feet of available space, that’s not happening anytime soon. A proposed sound wall could lower the noise, but it comes with a staggering price tag of $500,000. Instead, county experts recommend replanting hurricane-damaged greenery—a bit less expensive, but will it actually help?
The sheriff’s office, led by Sheriff Bill Prummell, is aware of the complaints and underscores the importance of training for their deputies. After all, those rounds of practice are vital for public safety, even if it means an occasional “bang” for the neighbors. In the end, it looks like the residents may have to adapt their own sound budgets—earplugs anyone?
