Airport issues stem from commissioners
Editor, The Sun:
The 11 Jan publication of this esteemed community newspaper had two letters negating Val Le Hart’s opine of the status of PIA. The attempt to ridicule and minimize Miss Val’s certainly was not chivalrous nor reflected any decent code of conduct from gentlemen.
One letter stated that Panacea Int’l Airstrip was a bargain. Well, if its such a bargain, why is Tarpine requesting subsidies? Why should I subsidy toys if its such a bargain? I doubt a rational answer is forthcoming.
Another letter, cloaked in patriotic zeal, stated it was unpatriotic not to desire military aircraft, exceeding the weight limits delineated in the Trust, near PIA. The inference was that PIA is strategically critical to the welfare of the nation thus aircraft, which have been grounded, must be allowed to utilize PIA. This letter was my personal favorite since it reeked of a “Karen” putting pencil to paper because of sheer emotion as exhibited by a lack of critical-thought. Memo to the “Karen”, engage rational thought and explain how does an Osprey comply with the Trust’s requirement of light aircraft? The Osprey empty weight is 31,818 pounds. Its prop has a diameter of 38 feet. The thrust is the same as a CH-47 Chinook helicopter. As of the end of 2023, the Osprey has tragically suffered 13 crashes with 32 fatalities.
And finally, with logic acquired from either Mad magazine or from the kindergarten primer “See Spot Run”, the write states I knew there was a strategic international airstrip of significant traffic accommodating all who could abuse the 2,590 foot grass strip. Yes, I knew there was an airstrip for recreational aircraft. My neighbors and I truly enjoy the aircraft who comply with the 6,000 pound weight rule. The hang gliders and single-engine aircraft are wonderful. There is little noise pollution, it’s wonderful to see these compliant aircraft soar. We did not foresee the county allowing a rogue volunteer to exceed their authority and “invite” aircraft violating the Trust’s limit. We. also, did not expect the “bargain airstrip” to request a special taxing district so the few can be subsidized by the many.
All this can be quickly resolved. There is little need for neighbors to tussle. The angst is generated by the Board of County Commissioners. The BOCC could easily put this to rest by responsibly and correctly supervising the volunteers to abide by the limits delineated by the Trust.
The BOCC is solely to blame for the ill-will. They won’t do their job. If the BOCC won’t or can’t abide by the Trust, its time to return PIA back to the Trust.
Remember this when we vote. This body of minor league politicos have violated the trust and confidence of Wakulla County.
Robert Franco
Ochlockonee Bay
