Mystic man who suggested limit on snow-removal wanted to begin dialogue

Stonington — The Mystic man who has proposed the town amend its nuisance ordinance and ban snow-removal work at businesses between approximately 10 p.m. and 5 a.m. said Thursday he did so to begin a conversation about what are acceptable hours for the noisy work.

“It’s something we should address as a community because so many people live close to businesses in Mystic, Stonington and Pawcatuck,” said Matt Troutman of 51 East Main St.

Troutman, who has lived in his home next to the CVS in Mystic since 2010, said the noise from crews clearing snow from the CVS lot in the early morning hours is loud and extremely disruptive and keeps him and his family awake for an hour or more.

Troutman said he understands that snow-removal contractors have to make their money in a limited season.

“It’s not my intention to encumber the snow-removal companies but there’s got to be some middle ground so it’s not very disruptive to people who live on nearby properties,” he said.

Troutman said he was not aware that selectmen had placed his proposal on the agenda for their Wednesday meeting. He said he plans to attend a future meeting to discuss the issue with them.

On Wednesday, the Board of Selectmen tabled action on Troutman’s proposal to collect more information and hear from more residents. The ordinance, however, can only be modified by a town meeting vote.

The town’s nuisance ordinance currently prohibits unreasonably loud, disturbing or unnecessary noise that can be heard inside a home before 6 a.m. and after 10 p.m. Monday through Saturday and before 8 a.m. and after 10 p.m. on Sunday. There are exceptions for things such as snow-removal equipment.