Neighbors worry about noise from Naperville church

A Naperville church will be allowed to use amplifiers at up to four outdoor events this summer, city officials say, despite complaints from neighbors about the resulting noise.

The city council voted unanimously Tuesday to allow three outdoor church services, lasting at most one hour each, and one other event - possibly a concert - lasting up to two hours after hearing strongly divergent views from officials at Our Saviour's Lutheran Church and neighbors.

Mayor Steve Chirico said he's satisfied with the outcome of the debate but wishes there was more communication between the two sides.

"I'm sad there hasn't been more compromise here," Chirico said. "That's how neighbors work things out."

The city approved construction of the church building in April 2004 but stipulated that "no external speaker systems or amplifiers" should be used on the property at 815 S. Washington St., which is bordered by houses on three sides.

Over the past 11 years, several amplification permits have been issued to the church in error, officials said, resulting in two complaints filed with the city.

Our Saviour's leaders said they want to use amplifiers for outdoor worship services, fundraising events like concerts, and social gatherings such as picnics.

"We have tried to be good neighbors and feel that we have not been disruptive to the neighborhood," Don Swanson, a member of the congregation, said.

Lana Vosburgh, whose home is directly behind the church, disagreed.

"We have lived in our current home since 1986 and when we bought the house we expected noise from Edward Hospital and Washington Street but not from the church," Vosburgh said. "I just don't think it's necessary; they have a beautiful indoor auditorium. I think one event is too many. I don't want to make concessions; I just don't want to be subjected to that noise."

Another neighbor, Roger Diesem, said he and his wife are forced inside whenever there is an outdoor event at the church.

"We shut our doors, shut our windows and wait until it's over," Diesem said.

Swanson originally sought permission to use amplifiers at 10 outdoor events, but city council members said the jump from a total ban to 10 such events was too great.

City officials cautioned church leaders that the permit for four events can be revoked if any problems arise.