Kirkland Neighborhood News: Online survey helps Kirkland understand impact of boat noise ordinance; Take by April 15

Tuesday, March 19, 2013

City of Kirkland
NEWS RELEASE
123 – Fifth Avenue
Kirkland, WA 98033
www.kirklandwa.gov
https://twitter.com/kirklandgov

Contact: Marie Stake
City Manager’s Office
mstake@kirklandwa.gov
425-587-3021

March 19, 2013

Online survey helps Kirkland understand impact of boat noise ordinance; Take survey by April 15, 2013

KIRKLAND, Wash. – In June 2012, the City of Kirkland enacted an amendment to its existing public disturbance ordinance that allowed for the regulation of watercraft noise (Kirkland Municipal Code 11.84A.070). The law prohibits watercraft noise such as frequent, repetitive or continuous sounds from a horn or siren; excessive engine noise; and audio sound system noise audible from 300 feet or more. The amendment was in response to community concerns about an increase in noise from boats such as stereo, engine, and loud voices from boat passengers on Lake Washington along Kirkland’s shores. The City is interested in hearing from those who live, work, visit or enjoy Lake Washington in Kirkland whether the new provision has had an impact on their experience, as well as other safety or environmental concerns.  The survey is available online at www.kirklandwa.gov/watercraftsafety through April 15, 2013.  Input will be shared with the City Council.

“As the 2013 boating season approaches, the City and King County Sheriff’s Office Marine/Dive/Rescue Unit will continue their balanced approach of watercraft safety education and enforcement,” notes Kirkland Police Captain Bill Hamilton. 

The City is conducting a review of its watercraft regulations which are contained in Kirkland Municipal Code Title 14 and are in need of an update to reflect Kirkland’s current needs.  The regulations were originally adopted in 1960. 

For more information, contact Captain Bill Hamilton, Kirkland Police Department, at 425-587-3405 or bhamilton@kirklandwa.gov.  To subscribe to receive updates on proposed changes to the regulations, go to www.kirklandwa.gov/watercraftsafety.