If the music is too noisy for you, say something

Once again, things heated up, July 16, as Cornell’s Public Health & Safety Committee met, to discuss a noise ordinance violation at 921 South Eighth Street, otherwise known as the residence of Dan Osborn, and the location of the Wisconsin Veteran Farm & Winery. A number of complaints have been received by the Cornell Police Department, that the music played on the property is too loud, which is disturbing some of the neighbors. “Something needs to be done out there,” said mayor Mark Larson. Police chief John Kosterman shared that he did speak with Osborn, about the complaints, with Osborn’s defense that the speakers are projected in a certain direction, because the electric is not set up how he intended. However, according to his Conditional Use Permit, the property can’t have outdoor music events. That, in itself, is somewhat vague, as to what an outdoor music event is. Is it a band or a festival, as stated in the permit? “They’re not super clear,” said Kosterman, adding that since Osborn is in a residence, but zoned agricultural, it might make it hard to enforce the permit. “That’s where you run into a gray area.” If conditions of the permit are not followed, the permit could be pulled, which would mean events could not take place. It was agreed, that no matter what, the city’s noise ordinance, which is in effect 24 hours a day, is being violated. “You can’t argue this noise ordinance at all,” said Larson. Kosterman informed Osborn, that if he receives one more complaint, he will receive a citation. Cornell City Council member Steve Turany questioned how Kosterman deals with a situation of this sort, to ensure the complaints are coming from an “ornery neighbor,” who has a grudge. “You got to be prepared, to make sure you’re not making the wrong decision,” said Turany. Kosterman says the last complaint, an entire group showed up in the morning. His hope is, with another fulltime officer, the police will be on duty to witness any offense that might happen at Osborn’s property. Many of the complaints state that the music is so loud, that photos on the wall are vibrating and that the residents can’t hear to talk on the phone. Kosterman thinks because Osborn is stationed behind the speakers, he might not realize that the sound is at the volume it is. Kosterman also mentioned, that he wants any business to be successful, which was seconded by the mayor and council members present. “But, you have to follow the rules,” he said. “We can’t just let you do whatever, and offend people and bother people.” The next day, at the regular council meeting, July 17, Osborn appeared to address the matters discussed, feeling that the council’s actions are disconcerting. Osborn has been in Cornell for more than 20 years, opened one business, with another in progress. He travels throughout the state, promoting Cornell, but says when at home, people are claiming untruths about him. Osborn said that the city crews dig up his yard, then leave the work undone, will not fulfill his power upgrade request and that he has even received death threats from people. “It’s non-stop harassment,” said Osborn. Larson, not discounting what Osborn feels, mentioned that he personally heard music played loudly, as far as a quarter of a mile away. Countering that, Osborn can hear the sports announcer at every football game, the same distance, which could be deemed disturbing his peace. It was agreed by all parties, that if they have a problem or receive complaints, they will speak to Osborn, before any other action is taken. “If you have an issue, come and talk to me,” said Osborn. “That’s all I’m asking for, be professional.”