Kingsville contemplates regulating large holiday light show after complaints
CBC
Neighbour complaints could result in changes for a large annual Kingsville Christmas light show.
The Williams Light Show has been running for six years — emanating from 24 Marshwood Boulevard on the west side of the town.
It's made up of roughly 65,000 computer-coordinated lights that flash and change colour while set to music pumped out of speakers.
According to a report headed to council on Monday, some nearby neighbours feel as though the light show "unacceptably infringes" on their otherwise quiet street.
A staff report outlines objections from neighbours about things like repetitive flashing lights and music — as well as "excessive" traffic, driveways being blocked, and a large lift used to set up and takedown the show in November and January.
Administration says 20 to 30 vehicles have been reported idling for up to an hour to watch shows, creating an environmental impact with "localized smell and air quality issues."
The shows begin each year on Nov. 29 in honour of Colton Williams' late grandmother's birthday.
They last for about 20 minutes and run at 6 p.m., 7 p.m., 8 p.m. on Sunday, Monday, Tuesday and Thursday. On Friday and Saturday there is an additional 9 p.m. show. There are no displays Wednesdays, and the holiday shows end on Boxing Day.
Williams says he's not surprised the issue has ended up back on the town's radar.
"We've went through this song and dance multiple times," he said. "We thought this was all put to bed about two years ago."
He said at that time, there were two or three neighbours complaining.
"The last direction from the previous administration was to tell those neighbours that I am to remove the Wednesday shows and get rid of the 9 p.m. ones during the week."
Based on the time of the season, staff suggest if council wishes to regulate large light displays — similar to events — that they be considered for November 2024.
"Administration attempted in prior years to facilitate discussion and mediation between neighbours but to no satisfaction of any of the parties," the town report stated.
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