DECATUR, Ind. — Adams County officials are exploring legal and enforcement options to address late-night noise disturbances following a series of complaints from residents in the southeastern portion of the county.
During a meeting of the Adams County Board of Commissioners, citizens from Pleasant Mills reported frequent disruptions caused by off-road vehicles and “burnouts.” According to residents, the noise often occurs in the early morning hours, specifically around 1:50 a.m.
The board discussed the technical hurdles of enforcing the current noise ordinance, which requires the use of certified decibel readers to prove a violation. County Attorney Pete Walburn suggested that while criminal enforcement remains a challenge, affected residents could potentially address the issue in civil court as a “private nuisance.”
To provide more immediate relief, the incoming sheriff told the board his department would increase patrols in the Pleasant Mills area to discourage the behavior through a more consistent police presence.
In other business:
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Traffic Safety: The board designated South Adams and South Van Buren streets in Monroe as “no through truck” routes to protect residential roads from heavy vehicle traffic.
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Public Events: Commissioners approved the use of the courthouse lawn and surrounding parking lots for the Decatur Sculpture Tour on June 13 and the Decatur Day Car Show on June 20.
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Vision Plan: A resolution regarding the 2026 Adams County Vision Plan was tabled to allow for minor administrative revisions.