Judging by the first public hearing, most Saugerties residents are not interested in the town setting hard and fast noise limits.

About 50 attended the hearing at the Senior Center on Aug. 13. The proposed noise ordinance would cap acceptable noise levels at 72 dB from 7 a.m.–10 p.m. and 66 dB from 10 p.m.–7 a.m. Residents could apply for a variance if for any reason they expect to violate those limits. Violating the stated decibel level without permission would result in a “fine not to exceed $250 or by imprisonment for up to fifteen days for each offense or violation or by both,” according to the proposed ordinance.