BERWICK -- A home along Susquehanna Avenue is the loudest location in Berwick--at least according to the homeowner, who lives near the Berwick Brewery.
Jacob Shaffer made it clear at a public hearing with the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board that he wants the state to keep enforcing noise violations.
The majority vote, on the other hand, showed otherwise. Most people at the public hearing want the borough to take over all noise complaint enforcement. It would include businesses with a liquor license.
Over the last few years, Shaffer has complained to police that the events at the Berwick Brewery are just too loud.
"It's not going to do nothing for me or the other seniors of Berwick. I live in a location where there's just two of us that the noise really effects," Jacob Shaffer said.
Most people at the public hearing came to support the Berwick Brewery.
"It's just a beautiful spot to have music outside and he built the fence around there and I think it's a nice spot out back," Melinda Hallowell said.
The way the law is now, establishments with a liquor license can't make noise that can be heard past the property line. For businesses that hold outdoor music events and concerts, it makes it tough.
If the PLCB rules in favor of the borough, businesses will be able to have more things outside with fewer restrictions. Residents say, that's exactly what they want.
Monica Zourides' husband has worked at the brewery since it opened in 2008. She feels that having noise enforcement by the local police will allow area businesses to have more fun and attract new guests.
"We really enjoy our town and it gives us a place to relax with good company, good patrons, and a good atmosphere. I don't see why that would ever be an issue for anybody to not want to enjoy that," Zourides said.
The Berwick Brewery has never been cited for a noise violation.
The Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board has 60 days to make a decision on whether or not to allow the borough to take over noise complaint enforcement by the Pennsylvania State Police Bureau of Liquor Control Enforcement.
