Editor,
Without fanfare, I offer the following solution to the OLF noise problem: Build a touch and go runway on Smith Island. An abandoned Navy facility has occupied the surface of Smith Island for years. Building a touch and go strip there would:
-Remove the excessive noise that currently harms the well being of OLF’s nearby residents.
-Provide a training runway essential for maintaining the high quality skills required of aviators.
-If a building bond, something akin to tax-free municipal bonds, could fund this, anyone wishing to invest in the bond would enjoy some tax-free income, providing economic growth to anyone who wants it.
Because a good attorney’s real job is to solve problems for clients, those representing residential interests could contact Congressman Larsen, who could press for this solution for them.
The attorneys representing Whidbey Island Naval Air Station could contact the Secretary of the Navy, who could also press for such a solution.
The parties involved would have what they need. This is the art of compromise, giving each other what each party needs, not necessarily giving up something.
We, including myself, blame our elected officials for their contentious selfishness. However, I cannot help but think they reflect something of us.
We, by example, could demonstrate the leadership our country needs.
Vincent M. Hagel
Oak Harbor
