The Alpharetta City Council convened on May 19, 2025, to discuss a proposal for a new vertiport, a facility designed for electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, which could revolutionize local transportation. The proposal, presented by Popeland Enterprises, aims to integrate advanced air mobility into the city’s infrastructure, potentially enhancing connectivity for residents and businesses.

Key discussions centered around the terminology and regulatory framework for the proposed vertiport. Council members expressed concerns about the current classification of the facility as a heliport, which traditionally accommodates helicopters. The distinction is crucial, as the council aims to ensure that the facility is limited to eVTOL aircraft, which are quieter and more environmentally friendly than traditional helicopters. The city attorney clarified that while vertiports are classified as a type of heliport by the FAA, the council could still impose specific conditions to restrict the use to eVTOLs only.

Public feedback was also a significant aspect of the meeting. Residents voiced concerns about noise and the potential impact on the surrounding neighborhoods. One resident, Diana Dagger, emphasized the importance of precise language in the proposal to prevent any future confusion regarding the facility's operations. The council acknowledged these concerns and agreed on the necessity of refining the language before moving forward.

In light of the discussions, the council decided to defer the vote on the proposal until the Unified Development Code (UDC) could be amended to include a clear definition of vertiports. This amendment process is expected to take approximately two months, during which the council will work to ensure that the community's interests are adequately represented and protected.

The decision to pause the proposal reflects the council's commitment to thoroughness and community engagement, ensuring that any future developments align with Alpharetta's goals for sustainable and innovative transportation solutions. As the city navigates this emerging technology, residents can expect continued dialogue and updates on the progress of the vertiport initiative.