Turn It Down

Back in July 2021, local business man, Gordon Whitener, opened a drive-in movie in Loudon just off Hwy 72. Whitener presented the idea of the drive-in to Loudon City and Loudon County officials. One concern that was raised during those discussions was the possible noise the drive-in would create. Whitner assured all officials that the audio for the movie would be provided through a low power FM radio signal that could be tuned in through a car radio and through a smart phone mobile app. External speakers would only be used in emergency cases.

Fast forward two years, and apparently, the external speakers are used at all times causing serious problems for the surrounding communities. It's not just the volume it's self that's the problems, but many of the movies are PG and R rated bring lots of inappropriate and vulgar language broadcasting through the surrounding neighborhoods. One resident reported that he can't even let his children be outside during some movie showings due to the bad language.

It's not just the movies and shows at the LOCO Drive-In. The property has begun hosting rodeos. And by many accounts from residents, the music being broadcast during these rodeos can be heard for miles.

The property where the drive-in is located is owned by Loudon County and Loudon City. The lease price is $200.00 per month. The Loudon County Economic Development Agency, EDA, manages the lease agreement. Several city council and county commissioners have complained to the EDA about the noise problem. EDA manager, Jack Qualls, drafted a letter to the drive-in owner asking that the noise problem be addressed.

The operator has not yet responded to the request.

It's unfortunate for the folks in the area to have to deal with this issue.

At our last Board meeting, I was asked to draft a letter to send the Drive-In in Loudon.  This is an attempt to capture the board’s intent.  If this is acceptable, I will forward certified mail as stated in the lease agreement.
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In the Memorandum of Lease and right of first refusal signed May 1, 2021, between Loudon Entertainment, LLC. and City of Loudon and Loudon County under Section 16.5 Notices as acting Landlord would like to formally request the following considerations:

By virtue of the Board of Directors with Loudon County Economic Development Agency as Director, was instructed to ask for an update with the Drive-In LoCo’s audio equipment(s) specially the ability to broadcast sound across the radio in vehicles and mobile apps? 

In addition, I would like to ask for your consideration to not play/show movies with language using excessive profanity. I look forward to the update and continuing our partnership.

Sincerely

Jack Qualls
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Residential Areas Impacted By The Drive-In Sound System

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12/18/23