Urgent: Dillon Amphitheater Noise Controversy Sparks Community Outcry

UPDATE: Tensions are rising in Dillon, Colorado, as more than 20 community members voiced urgent concerns over noise levels from the Dillon Amphitheater during a town council meeting on February 3, 2023. This public outcry comes from residents, particularly those living at the nearby Lake Cliffe Condominiums, who fear that proposed changes to the amphitheater could disrupt both their quality of life and the town’s economy.

Residents, part of a group known as the Neighbors of the Dillon Amphitheater, have been vocal since August 2022, citing excessive noise that vibrates through their condominiums, located as close as 50 feet from the venue. Their concerns have prompted a push for modifications to how the amphitheater operates, including proposals to lower sound levels and limit show frequencies.

The controversy intensified following a January 23 Facebook post alleging that a “small group of second homeowners” intended to significantly alter amphitheater operations. The proposed changes include banning certain music genres, such as electronic dance music, and enforcing stricter sound limits. As part of their ongoing advocacy, the neighbors submitted a proposal detailing seven key requests to the town. Key among these are calls to lower decibel limits and restrict back-to-back performances, which they claim exacerbate noise issues.

In a statement, the neighbors emphasized, “Heavy-bass shows produce the most intrusive noise — this is science, not opinion.” They argue that the current sound levels lead to physical disturbances in their homes, such as the shaking of windows and appliances. Their proposal also suggests involving the community in decisions regarding amphitheater operations, enforcing a 10 p.m. cutoff for shows, and improving crowd management.

At the February 3 meeting, many attendees rallied against the proposed restrictions, particularly the ban on specific music genres. Dillon resident Terese Berger passionately urged the council to consider the broader community’s interests, stating, “I know that we all believe the amphitheater is a major community asset with broad cultural and economic value.”

Supporters of the amphitheater, including neighbor Keri Dawn Solner, refuted claims that the group seeks to “shut the amphitheater down.” Solner pointed out that their focus is on finding solutions, including consulting an independent audio engineer to mitigate noise impact.

In response to the community’s concerns, Mayor Carolyn Skowyra assured attendees that the council is committed to finding a balanced solution. She stated, “I’m sure that we can come to some kind of agreement that is satisfactory to the residents that live nearby and also maintains all the things we love about the amphitheater.”

The council plans to address these pressing issues further during a work session on February 17, 2023, where they will receive recommendations from the Parks, Recreation, Arts and Cemetery Committee regarding the amphitheater. As discussions continue, the community remains on edge, eager to see how the council will navigate this complex situation.

Stay tuned for more developments on this critical issue affecting Dillon’s residents and the future of the amphitheater. The outcome could have lasting implications for both local residents and the cultural landscape of the town.