Engine braking noise in question as county looks to change code

BERNALILLO — A request for a motion is the beginning of changes to the Sandoval County noise code.

County commissioners approved the publication of title and general summary for the proposed amendment to the code at the March 12 meeting.

“The purpose of this request is to add a Noise Ordinance that will accommodate New Mexico Department of Transportation installation of Signage within designated Right-of-Way along their highways in certain areas of Sandoval County to deter excessive noise near residential areas,” the summary states.

Commissioner Jon Herr asked if the change is to address “jake braking,” or engine braking, which is a method diesel engines use to slow down without using a pedal brake. The method is extremely loud and has caused complaints in communities before. Planning and Zoning’s Amy Griffin confirmed Herr’s inquiry was correct.

Another question that came up was if a decibel level would be set for enforcement.

“Because it’s got to be, from my point of view, it has to be measurable,” Herr said.

Griffin said in this particular case, it is to determine more code for engine braking, not to set a decibel level.

“That is something that’s easily identified,” she said.

The next step is for the county to publish the amendment publicly.