Village officials are seeking solutions to sound problems on Paper Mill Island.

During the Sept. 15 board meeting, Tim Baker, the village engineer, suggested the village board look into purchasing sound equipment for the amphitheater so officials can better control sound levels. However, after talking to sound technicians during Oktoberfest, Baker said that process would be fairly involved and expensive, ranging upwards of $50,000 for a decent system.

He said an alternative would be requiring promoters to go through pre-approved sound system providers, who would ensure performances do not exceed the village limit of 100 decibels.

While Baker said the village received fewer complaints about sound levels this year, there were questions as to whether the island was the appropriate venue for two concerts in particular. The 95X Sausagefest 2011 brought seven bands to the village, along with vulgar language on stage that echoed down the river. Residents complained about the language during the Aug. 18 village board meeting following the concert.

While tamer on stage, the 93Q Summer Jam on the Island created problems such as littering and loitering as people waited to gain entrance to the popular event, which has been held at Paper Mill Island for several years.

Baker said the village should have a new policy regarding sound levels by the next concert season.

Erin Wisneski is the editor of the Baldwinsville Messenger. Contact her at [email protected].