FAA's proposed TTF "Guidance" -- 11/30/09 Mending Fences article

Thank you for your November 30 posting of the article entitled "Mending Fences."  

Here, FYI, is part of the comment letter forwarded to the FAA by the Polk County Commissioners regarding the airpark at Independence State Airport in Oregon:

"The residential airpark associated with the Independence State Airport has been an extremely positive part of our County’s economic development during the thirty-five years or so of it’s existence and there have been no complaints or problems associated with that development of which we are aware.  You should have also received similar comments from our State Aviation Department and from the Mayor of Independence regarding this matter. 

"We believe this unique development can and should provide a model for the FAA to promote throughout the nation as a way to protect and support communities and their local airports. 

In closing, the above average property taxes paid by Airpark residents provide extra support for the Schools and the operation of both city and county governments.  The monthly access fees and fuel taxes paid to the state by the homeowners contribute significantly to making the 7S5 one of only 4 of 28 airports in the state self-sufficient.  There are five local businesses on the field (including a restaurant) which would not be there if the airpark did not exist.  This opportunity is out there for the smaller airports in the entire country. 

The existence of a residential airpark, properly handled, serves to protect and support our airports and the larger communities within which they exist. 

Gary Van Horn