Turn It Down 3
LOCO Loudness

Late last year, a problem came up with the LOCO drive-in in Loudon. The excessive noise coming from the movies had gotten to the point that residents all around the area were complaining about the excessive noise coming from the drive-in. Although, the movies were never suppose to be broadcast through the sound system, that's what was taking place. Not only was the extreme volume a problem, it was also the foul language in many of the movies being played. Attention was brought to the operator of the drive-in and corrections were made that seemed to resolve the problem. But now there's a whole new problem.

Apparently, the drive-in operator is bringing in Mexican rodeos. These don't seem to be what you'd think of as a rodeo. These don't have horse or bull riders. They're just very, very loud concerts with a whole lot of alcohol mixed in. The concerts can be heard for miles.

Loudon County and Loudon City are joint owners of the drive-in property. The movie operator leases the property from the county for $200 per month, a sweetheart deal. When the plan of leasing the property for a drive-in was proposed by the Loudon County Economic Development Agency, council members and commissioners were never told that they would be hosting outdoor drinking party's. I doubt it would have ever been approved had it been. It was sold by the EDA as a family friendly venue where everybody could come and enjoy themselves. There's been problems ever since.

And let me be as clear as I can, this has nothing to do with the fact it's a Mexican event. It wouldn't matter if it was country/western, pop, rock, rap or Elvis Presley. Residents within miles of this venue should not have to give up their peace and quiet for any such obnoxious events. 

Loudon County commission discussed this issue at our last workshop and plan to take some kind of action to end this nightmare for the folks that live in the area.   

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4/22/24