Never too late to re-evaluate a decision

Residents near Elm Street Hall must be justifiably pleased the Wauseon City Council reversed a previous decision by voting not to extend the allowable noise hours of the rental hall and any other business in town. Supporting last week's decision were council president Doug Shaw and councilors Karen Krumm and Don Matthews. Mayor Jerry Dehnbostel was required to break the 3-3 tie vote.

You'll recall that residents near the hall have been complaining about noise levels. The council addressed the complaint in an odd way by extending the hours from 11 p.m. to midnight.

The voices of the disgruntled - who felt disenfranchised - were heard and addressed.

While it is essential to support local business, especially in smaller communities, businesses and residences sometimes must co-exist as neighbors. Occasionally what's in the best interest of one party is not in the best interest of the other. When this happens exceptions have to be made.

Elm Street Hall is an asset to this entire area; a facility providing an appealing, clean, and affordable option for parties, receptions, dances, reunions, etc. By controlling noise levels the hall can also be a good neighbor for local residents.