Evanoff/Pro-Airport... please readDear Council,
In recent weeks, there has been rancorous debate over the proposed
improvements at the Kalispell City Airport. From the media coverage,
one would think that the vocal few that oppose such expansion, wield
an inordinate amount of influence with the council. It is my hope
that you will now listen to the rest of us that feel compelled to
share our views in favor of the expansion proposals.
I am a licensed private pilot and I strongly support the efforts to
expand and enhance the airport operation. The proposal will improve
safety and will encourage more patronage of the local businesses. My
home is in Lake County and I routinely fly into Kalispell City Airport
for a myriad of reasons, almost all of which involve spending money in
your city.
Whether spending the afternoon shopping at local stores or visiting
your restaurants, my ability to land at Kalispell City Airport allows
me to avail myself of all your community has to offer. In addition, I
often purchase aircraft fuel, have aircraft maintenance performed, and
seek recurrent training from the Red Eagle Aviation fixed base
operation. I rarely think about landing at Glacier Park
International (GPI) as it is far removed from the attractions that I
seek in Kalispell, and GPI is better suited to large commercial
carriers.
The vocal few that oppose not only the expansion but the very
existence of Kalispell City Airport have made the assertion that
aircraft activities at the airport are only enjoyed by the wealthy and
the well-to-do. A quick mental roll call of my local pilot community
reveals: a retired firefighter, a local school bus driver, a
blacksmith, a veterinarian, a retired farmer, and several retired U.S.
Military servicemen..... in other words, normal average citizens of
our community that enjoy your airport.
Please recognize that the proposed improvements at Kalispell City
Airport are in the best interest of the community at large. To forfeit
this opportunity would be a great disservice to the generations that
follow.
Sincerely,
Mark Evanoff