Philly church could face fines for noise after city issues warning over 7 a.m. bell-ringing

Philly warns church over bell-ringing at 7 a.m.

PHILADELPHIA — A Philadelphia church could face fines because the city says its 7 a.m. bell-ringing may violate a noise ordinance.

The city’s Department of Health says neighbors have complained about the bell noise at St. John the Baptist Roman Catholic Church in the Manayunk (MAN’-uh-yuhnk) neighborhood.

The Philadelphia Inquirer reports the department says the church could face fines of up to $700 a day if inspectors determine the noise can be heard at the nearest residential property.

City Councilman Jim Kenney says the situation is silly and he plans to draft legislation exempting churches and schools from the noise ordinance. There currently are exemptions for trains, aircraft, licensed fireworks displays and other things.

Church business manager Rosemary Swider says the congregation welcomes Kenney’s proposal.

Information from: The Philadelphia Inquirer, www.philly.com