I attended the very spirited Jan. 5 meeting at Meadowdale High School discussing the proposed opening of commercial air traffic at Paine Field. The environmental assessment was presented with the conclusion of very little impact on the region.
As a very frequent business traveler utilizing Sea-Tac, I was surveyed about six years ago by one airline asking if I would utilize Paine Field. At first, one thinks of the selfish convenience of just going to Paine Field. One developer stated he was simply tired of going to Sea-Tac. I reject this viewpoint for several reasons. I believe we observe enough selfishness in our daily lives and need to think about the impact on those around us.
I have found travel from Edmonds to Sea-Tac manageable to maintain the area lifestyle.
The study states little environmental impact, but is not based on full airport operation and therefore is incomplete. It does not address the loss of property value in current times where citizens have taken a financial beating. Cities dependent mostly on residential property taxes such as Edmonds will face further revenue burdens.
If Horizon and Allegiant enter, other airlines cannot be prevented from joining. Full-scale operations, noise, traffic, pollution, and crime will be real-world problems with a decrease in our standard of living.
Critics will say that significant new jobs will be created. I respond that companies would simply transfer existing workers from other locations with minimal job growth.
After reviewing all opinions, this is not a good deal. It is a classic example of a few benefiting financially at public expense. I encourage all citizens to take a serious look and investigate this proposal.
Buckle up, ladies and gentlemen, and make no mistake: Our wonderful lifestyle here is under siege.
Mike Murdock
Edmonds
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