Tonya Hamlin, owner of the Edelweis Haus, a tavern on Northampton Borough's lower Main Street, went before council Dec. 18 asking the borough to monitor the noise levels at the establishment.

Neighbors have issued complaints to the borough, police and Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board regarding excessive noise coming from the bar.

Hamlin said the business presently operates as a bar, but said, "I came up with a couple of ideas."

She said she wants to turn the tavern into a restaurant and bar featuring some ethnic food.

Hamlin also talked of having polka bands and other light music as entertainment.

"I want everyone to be happy," she said. "I want to be happy. I'd like to continue the history of Northampton. I want to keep it going."

The PLCB earlier investigated the Coplay Saengerbund after a resident complained of excessive noise originating from bands playing Friday evenings at its outdoor pavilion. The matter was ultimately settled when borough police agreed to monitor the decibel levels.

Hamlin suggested the borough also monitor the decibel levels at the Edelweis Haus.

Council President John Yurish and borough Manager Gene Zarayko suggested Hamlin first review the borough's noise ordinance.

"You can't stop people from calling," Yurish added.

Hamlin said the tavern will have sound proofing installed in some areas.

"Use it as a foundation," Yurish told Hamlin regarding the borough's noise ordinance.

"Right now it's a bar," she responded, adding the tavern has a kitchen and the food will be home made.

Hamlin said she is trying "to find a way to survive here."