Sphere Granted Noise Exemption, Sparks Outrage Among Nearby Residents

In a controversial decision, the Paradise Town Advisory Board voted 3-1 on Tuesday night to allow the Sphere, the massive entertainment venue on The Venetian’s property, to exceed Clark County noise limitations on 18 occasions throughout the year. This decision came despite strong opposition from residents of Park Towers, a high-rise apartment complex located near the Sphere.

The board’s decision allows the Sphere to emit loud noise until midnight on those 18 occasions. However, the issue is far from settled. It will now be heard by the Clark County Planning Commission on September 4th, which will make the final decision. The town advisory board only serves in an advisory capacity to the county commission.

Residents Feel “Ambushed”

Residents of Park Towers expressed their frustration with the board’s decision, particularly with the fact that the Sphere’s representatives made concessions after the public comment period had closed. Mike Watson, a resident, said that residents “weren’t able to refute the lies that they were telling.”

This sentiment stems from a recent incident on July 3rd and 4th, when a “test” at the Sphere emitted sound waves that rattled windows and disturbed residents in the apartment complex. James Kay, another resident, described the experience as feeling “ambushed.”

Concerns About Noise Levels

Representatives for Venetian Propco LLC, the company behind the Sphere, admitted that the July test was a mistake and exceeded the approved decibel level. However, the original waiver submitted to the board did not specify a decibel limit or the number of times the Sphere’s noise would exceed normal levels.

Board members Angelo Carvalho and Katlyn Cunningham both expressed concerns about the lack of specific limits on noise levels. Carvalho stated, “You have to give us numbers, not just throw something up in the air.” Cunningham, who has a background in entertainment engineering, emphasized the need for a cap on noise levels, stating, “That means you could make a jet engine, and I’m not going to go for that.”

The decision to grant the Sphere a noise exemption has ignited a debate about the balance between entertainment and the quality of life for nearby residents. The upcoming Clark County Planning Commission meeting will be a crucial moment in determining how this issue will be resolved.

Source: Review Journal