Residents demand action against F-35 noise and pollution
August 12, 2024 | Burlington City, Chittenden County, Vermont
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During a recent Burlington government meeting, community members voiced their concerns regarding homelessness, housing, and the impact of F-35 fighter jets on local life.
Dave Marr, a resident of Burlington's north end, expressed support for the mayor's memorandum on encampments, highlighting the city's appeal to the homeless due to its accessibility and services. He praised the administration's efforts to remove encampments from city parks but suggested that the urban reserve should also be included in no-camping ordinances. Marr called for a coordinated citywide initiative to combat the drug trade, advocating for collaboration with various law enforcement agencies to disrupt drug activities while simultaneously providing support for those struggling with addiction.
Jean Hopkins, a ward one resident, emphasized the need for more housing, particularly in light of recent weather emergencies that have displaced residents. She criticized the noise and pollution from F-35s, urging a shift in the Vermont Air National Guard's mission towards more humanitarian efforts.
Doris Bettinger, whose husband is a military pilot, echoed Hopkins' sentiments, arguing that the presence of F-35s has harmed the reputation of the National Guard and called for a mission that benefits both the community and the military.
Julia Handel, a ward four resident, highlighted the negative impact of F-35 noise on education, recounting instances where classes had to pause due to the disruptive sound. She urged support for a resolution addressing these concerns.
Deborah Young, who grew up in a military family, pointed out that the Air Force itself had advised against placing F-35s in Burlington due to potential harm to residents. She stressed the need to reconsider this decision for the well-being of the community.
Nolan Rogers raised concerns about the city's financial management, specifically criticizing the $11,000 monthly expenditure on a parking lot near the courthouse. He urged the city council to reconsider this agreement to save taxpayer money.
The meeting underscored a growing community desire for action on pressing issues, including homelessness, housing, and the environmental and educational impacts of military operations in the area.
Dave Marr, a resident of Burlington's north end, expressed support for the mayor's memorandum on encampments, highlighting the city's appeal to the homeless due to its accessibility and services. He praised the administration's efforts to remove encampments from city parks but suggested that the urban reserve should also be included in no-camping ordinances. Marr called for a coordinated citywide initiative to combat the drug trade, advocating for collaboration with various law enforcement agencies to disrupt drug activities while simultaneously providing support for those struggling with addiction.
Jean Hopkins, a ward one resident, emphasized the need for more housing, particularly in light of recent weather emergencies that have displaced residents. She criticized the noise and pollution from F-35s, urging a shift in the Vermont Air National Guard's mission towards more humanitarian efforts.
Doris Bettinger, whose husband is a military pilot, echoed Hopkins' sentiments, arguing that the presence of F-35s has harmed the reputation of the National Guard and called for a mission that benefits both the community and the military.
Julia Handel, a ward four resident, highlighted the negative impact of F-35 noise on education, recounting instances where classes had to pause due to the disruptive sound. She urged support for a resolution addressing these concerns.
Deborah Young, who grew up in a military family, pointed out that the Air Force itself had advised against placing F-35s in Burlington due to potential harm to residents. She stressed the need to reconsider this decision for the well-being of the community.
Nolan Rogers raised concerns about the city's financial management, specifically criticizing the $11,000 monthly expenditure on a parking lot near the courthouse. He urged the city council to reconsider this agreement to save taxpayer money.
The meeting underscored a growing community desire for action on pressing issues, including homelessness, housing, and the environmental and educational impacts of military operations in the area.
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