As a resident of Bandera, Texas, and a business owner on Main Street in the heart of this city, I am deeply concerned about the proposed changes to our city's noise ordinance. Our town is known for its music, cowboys, horses, and motorcycles - elements that truly make Bandera what it is. The new proposal threatens to reduce decibel levels to such an extent that it could seriously impact our local tourism and revenue.

Our small businesses depend on the lively atmosphere we've cultivated here in Bandera. Many of these businesses are at risk of closure if this ordinance passes due to decreased tourist interest and patronage. This isn't just about noise; it's about preserving the character and livelihoods of our community.

Moreover, there has been little opportunity for public input on these changes. It's crucial that as citizens of Bandera we have a say in decisions that will affect us all so profoundly.

We urge you to reconsider this proposal and instead engage with residents and business owners to find a solution that respects both our town’s unique culture and need for peace at appropriate times. Please sign this petition if you believe in preserving what makes Bandera special while ensuring fair regulations for all residents.

According to "My San Antonio" the heart of the Cowboy Capital of the World is "a town of only 975 residents, it can be heard at seven bars that serve as venues for live music. It's played around campfires on dude ranches that dot the countryside. You can stumble on it during impromptu jam sessions that pop up all over town when musicians bump into each other." (Bragg, R., 2010).

Texas Highways magazine (2020) cites that the Silver Spur Dance Hall was built and opened in 1934 hosting upwards of 700 citizens and residents on a Saturday night for live country music and dancing. (Ferguson, W., 2020).

In Austin Monthly (2022), “Music is central to the Bandera community, both historically and currently. From the old dance hall days when people from all over the surrounding counties would gather at The Cabaret for two-stepping to today when you can find live music any night of the week, music, and the establishments that support it, is the heart of Bandera. And they’re not too hung up on one particular genre. Texas swing, blues, country, folk, rock, even a little rap—you name it and someone’s playing it.” (Harrell, C., 2022).

Live music is part of what makes Bandera - well, Bandera! Please let the Bandera City Council know you want (1) research into what defines "noise pollution," (2) an open forum for residents and business owners to share the potential risks to the newly proposed noise ordinance, and (3) a work group/task force to co-write and develop a comprehensive noise ordinance that is respectful of residents and businesses prior to taking it to the City Council for a vote.