Councilors missed chance on F-35 vote
By: Meaghan Emery
Oct 17, 2024
The letter to the editor addresses a recent South Burlington City Council meeting where councilors voted on several local issues, including budget allocations, public transport, infrastructure, and land use. However, the vote was divided on a resolution urging the Vermont congressional delegation to explore a different mission for the Vermont Air National Guard due to the health impacts of F-35 aircraft noise on local residents. Although the public participated and councilors acknowledged the negative effects of noise, only three of the five councilors supported the resolution. The letter thanks Councilors Tim Barritt, Andrew Chalnick, and Laurie Smith for representing the interests of South Burlington residents affected by the noise.
Main Points
- South Burlington City Council recently held a meeting covering various local issues, including the budget, public transportation, road and water infrastructure, and land use.
- A significant topic was a resolution asking the Vermont congressional delegation to work with the U.S. Air Force to seek an alternative mission for the Vermont Air National Guard.
- The councilors were split on this resolution, with only three of the five members voting in support.
- Key reasons cited for supporting the resolution include:
- Data showing adverse health impacts from F-35 aircraft noise on residents.
- Similar resolutions had been passed by neighboring Burlington and Winooski city councils.
- Public involvement in the decision-making process highlighted community concerns.
- Councilors Tim Barritt, Andrew Chalnick, and Laurie Smith were recognized for their support of the resolution, which aimed to protect vulnerable residents in South Burlington.
- The letter emphasizes the importance of councilors’ commitment to policy positions that reflect the best interests of their constituents, particularly those most affected by health and noise concerns.