HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes_GTAB_10.09.2015Minutes for the Meeting of the
Georgetown Transportation Advisory Board and the
Governing Body of the City of Georgetown, Texas
October 9, 201.15
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Board Members: Truman Hunt — Chair, John Pettitt — Vice Chair, Ray Armour - Secretary, John Hesser,
Rachel Jonrowe ARRIVED AT 10:03 am, Chris HLuz, Scott Rankin, Steve Johnston, Donna Courtney
Board Members Absent:
Staff Present: Jim Briggs, Mike Babin., Jana Kern, Ed Polasek, Bill Dryden, Mark Miller, Russ Volk, Paul
Diaz, Skye Masson, Trina Bickford
Others Present:
Regular Session
A. Call to Order Mr. Truman Hunt called the regular GTAB Board Meeting to order on
Friday, October 9, 2015 at 10:02 AM
Georgetown Transportation Advisory Board may, at any time, recess the Regular Session to
convene an Executive Session at the request of the Chair, a Board Member, The City Manager,
Assistant City Manager, General Manager of Utilities, City Council Member, or legal counsel for
any purpose authorized by the Open Meetings Act, Texas Government Code Chapter 551, and
are subject to action in the Regular Session that follows.
B. Introduction of Visitors
C. Industry/CAMPO/TxDOT Updates: Nat Waggoner is not here today because he is in
Galveston- receiving an award for the Sidewalk Master Plan.
TxDOT: Using the Proposition 1 money that TxDOT received last year, they have
programed and started the design work for the IH 35/Williams Drive interchange
improvements. In design for the next two years with construct scheduled to let in the 2017/18
time period. We also have the GTEC Rivery Extension project that will be starting around the
same time as the Williams Dr. interchange project. We do not all want to be working the area at
the same time so we are trying to coordinate the timing with TxDOT.
Working with Congressman Carter office, TxDOT has scheduled a ground breaking date for
October 19, 2015 for the FM 1460 project.
D. Discussion regarding the Project Progress Reports and Time Lines — Bill Dryden, P. E.,
Transportation Engineer, Mark Miller, Transportation Services Manager and Edward G.
Polasek, AICD, Transportation Services Director.
E. Discussion regarding the Airport Project Progress Report and Time Lines. — Russ Volk, Airport
Manager and Edward G. Polasek, AICP, Transportation Services Director.
Legislative Regular Agenda
The Board will individually consider and possibly take action on any or all of the following
items:
F. Review and possible action to approve the minutes from the Regular GTAB Board
meeting held on September 10, 2015 — Jana Kern
Motion by Jonrowe second by Hesser to approve the minutes as presented. Approved
unanimously 9-0
G. Presentation, discussion and possible recommendation of a DRAFT Ordinance "Illicit
Discharge of pollutants into the MS4 or Conveyances". Edward G. Polasek, AICD,
Transportation Services Director and Skye Masson, Asst. City Attorney
Polasek gave an overview of the first year's progress. There was also discussion on what
is an illicit discharge Motion by Rankin second by Jonrowe to recommend the draft
Ordinance. Approved unanimously 9-0
H. Discussion and possible recommendation to reorganize the Transportation Services
Division to accommodate MS4 Program Administration, ADA Coordination and other
Planning and Program Management Responsibilities. - Edward G. Polasek, AICD,
Transportation Services Director
Polasek gave an overview of this item. After a lengthy discussion on this item, the Board
asked that this be tabled and brought back to the November Board meeting. The Board
of the new responsibilities that will be taken on with the new MS4 project. Motion by
H'Luz second by Johnston to approve the Transportation Services Division
reorganization. Opened up for further discussion. Jonrowe stated that she feels that this
needs to be looked at in a littler greater detail and look at the bigger picture what is the
grand plan etc. Briggs stated that he understands what the Board is asking and we can
table this item, until next month, and bring to you a bigger overall picture of the
Transportation Division.
H'Luz withdraws his motion Johnston seconded.
Motion by Jonrowe second by Hesser to table this item until the next GTAB Board
Meeting (November) to discuss in greater detail. Approved unanimously 9-0
I. Public Hearing for and Airport Improvement Project involving relocation of a proposed
fuel farm at the Georgetown Municipal Airport. - Russ Volk, C.M., Airport Manager and
Edward G. Polasek, AICP, Transportation Services Director
Volk gave an overview of the fuel farm.
The citizens that signed up to speak on this item are: Dr. Dominic Dekeratry, Richard
Ballentine, Judy Brown, Jerry Brown, Frances Deisselle, Ted Greenslait, John Milford,
Nancy Zenner, Pete Zenner, Sue Hains, Lori Ford, Colin O'Dowd, Terry Reed, John
Swain, Wendy Dew, Robert Spears, Cobby Caputo, Carla Wills, Barbara Campbell,
Ronald Bindas, Cally Ellington, Bob Meeker, Rodney Rainy, Walter Greilich (withdrew
his name), Keith Peshak, Jim Ray, Carl Norris, Paul Demaio, Hugh Stowe, Hugh Taylor,
John Jebens: All of the citizens' comments are part of the recorded minutes. For those
that provided written comments, they are at the end of these minutes.
Adjoumment
Motion by Jonrowe, second by Lesser to adjourn meeting. Approved unanimously 9-0.
Meeting adjourned at 12:04 pm.
Vprl,ved:.*.*
v
ruman Fluj9nnt- Chair
Attested: A
Ray 'k—mour - Secretary
Jana R. Kern - GTAB Board Liaison
Good Morning,
My name is Terry Reed. Mary Ann and I have lived at 4406 W Cordoba Circle in
Serenade for over 21 years.
I am opposed to any issuance of a Notice of No Significant Impact for the Fuel Farm
and I demand preparation of a full Environmental Impact Statement for the proposed
1514GRGTN federal grant for the 25 component Airport 2015 CIP.
Thank You
Speech for council meeting October 9, 2015
Good morning, Mr. Chairman—council members. My name is Jerry Brown, and I reside at 100
Pilot Place, immediately north of the airport.
During my almost 50 years of teaching, I have always encouraged my students at every level fill
be active in their community. It would be foolish of me not to set the example for them and
others I continue to influence. Therefore, I am here to speak in opposition to any increase in
fuel storage without a full and comprehensive Environmental Impact Statement. More fuel
could lead to more risk of crashes, more risk of explosions, and more runway expansion. I also
speak for those in the neighborhoods around the airport who are unaware of developments
because of the lack of communication by the city in a clear and public manner.
Over 10 years ago, our family carefully chose the property we now own—examining the area
including the animal and plant life. The residential area surrounding the airport includes a
variety of trees that are 200 to 400 years old as well as a wide variety of wildlife. Our property
is designated by the National Wildlife Federation as an advanced, certified wildlife habitat, and
each fall I continue to plant more wild flowers in the meadows on the property to continue to
encourage the presence of wildlife, especially bees, which are currently in danger.
Since the airport is already surrounded by residential area that continues to expand, it seems
that Georgetown might well follow the example of Austin by moving the airport to another
location and developing the current airport into a residential and commercial area which woult'
help to offset the cost of the new airport. This would also preserve the current wildlife from
further exposure tonoise, light, •and fuel pollution •as well as •enhancing the current residential
housing and providing additional housing space for families continuing to move to this area.
Therefore, I strongly oppose any Findings of No Significant Impact being issued for the Fuel
Farm. Instead a full and complete Environmental Impact Statement should be prepared not
only for the Airport 2015 Capital Improvement Plan, but for any federal grants issued for the
GTU in the past decade. I further firmly request that the National Environmental Policy Act
federal grant review process used by the city and TxDOT for our airport be reviewed and
correcte,0.
Speech for council meeting October 9, 2015
Good morning, Mr. Chairman—council members. My name is Judy Brown. I reside at 100 Pilot
Place, immediately north of the airport. I am opposed to any FONSI for the fuel farm.
In 2004, after decades of teaching, my husband and I moved to Georgetown to be near our
children and grandchildren, and to be of help to my parents. We chose our house carefully, so
that the whole family could enjoy the open space, trees, wildlife, and peace it provided, and so
we would have room for my parents, who lived with us from 2008 until their deaths four years
later. After more than ten years of work, both physical labor and extra jobs, we have created the
home we wanted to live in for the rest of our lives —a gathering place for our extended family
and neighbors. It is designated by the National Wildlife Federation as an advanced, certified
wildlife habitat, and in the spring we enjoy a neighborhood decorated with a profusion of wild
flowers.
During this time, the airport was a fairly good neighbor, but without any provision for
discussion and in spite of repeated verbal assurances that no airport expansion was planned,
runways were lengthened and traffic increased —adding to the fuel and noise pollution of our
neighborhood. Lights were added, which erased much of the splendor of the night sky.
Now, if it weren"t for the vigilance of a neighbor, we would not have been aware of this
meeting—to discuss plans for a huge increase in fuel storage. At the least, this would lead to
even more traffic, more noise and fuel pollution, more risk for the natural environment and for
our family—especially the children, who love to run and play outside at Millhaven (the name
they helped us choose). At worst, more fuel would lead to more risk of crashes, more risk of
explosions, and more runway expansion. This action would rob us of our home and rob our
children and grandchildren of their inheritance.
We are not the only family who will be affected. Some have been here—coexisting with the
airport—for over 30 years. Some are caring for elderly parents, children, or grandchildren.
Some, like the young doctors deKeratry and Fields, just built a home in which to raise their little
boys. They have devoted their lives to caring for the people of Georgetown. Your actions will
put them and many other families at risk. Do not make this disastrous mistake. There are other
options available, such as relocating our airport to a property that would allow for long term
growth without ruining neighborhoods.
We are opposed to any FONSI and demand a full and comprehensive EIS.
We, the people who live here, demand the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness
here in Georgetown
RE: Draft Environmental Assessment for the Proposed Fuel Facility
For the Georgetown Municipal Airport (GTU), Georgetown, TX
Name: My name is Lori Ford and my husband and I have lived in
Georgetown for 17 years and reside at 3801 Roble Grande
Circle.
Do to the time set for this meeting my husband, Rollie Ford
was unable to attend and wanted to make the following
statement.
It is clear that an expansion of the Fuel Facility will enable expansion of the
Georgetown Municipal Airport (GTU), Georgetown, TX
I have 30 years of public school experience, with more than half as an
administrator. Any expansion of Georgetown's airport will have an adverse effect on
the education of thousands of students in Georgetown.
The Noise Sensitive Map only shows three schools and overstates their distance
from airport property. Three schools which have been open for many years are
entirely omitted: The charter school that directly borders airport property and
located at Northwest and Serenada. Gateway Tech High School located between
Dawn Drive and Williams (behind Taco Bell). Georgetown Alternative School (which
is not a part of Georgetown High School and located at the corner of Stadium Drive
and N. Austin Ave.
A middle school and elementary school are within 2000ft of the airport property and
the flight pattern is near Georgetown High School, and the Alternative School. The
airport is near center of the city and the flight pattern, landings and takeoff cover an
enormous area of the city proper. The City of Georgetown will become Georgetown
Airport City.
What is ironic, the City wants to expand the airport, but there is no large
Georgetown citizen group advocating for its expansion. A survey of who uses the
airport and who benefits from an airport expansion shows that most of these people
do not live in Georgetown, and their children would not be harmed by a larger
airport.
From the Transportation Research Boar(]
As is evident from numerous studies, there is a considerable body of research
demonstrating that chronic exposure to noise is associated with learning deficits in
children (see citations in Special Note A). For example, a recent study prepared for
the European Union suggests that a 5dB-increase in noise exposure translates to a
2 -month delay in reading scores.
The data that supports the claim that students are harmed by airports is
indisputable. Below are multiple links of studies that prove this point.
Assessing Aircraft Noise Conditions Affecting Student Learning Vol. 1
J wk aI
W
t
Project Experience: Effects of Aircraft Noise on Students Learning
Noise and Student Learning: page 5 Acoustical Quality
Have You Heard? Noise can Affect Learning
Children in schools bombarded by frequent aircraft noise don't learn to read as well
as children in quiet schools do, say Cornell University
J -4I
W W � e ".-J,-11 a t-, on w c-) r ci �,... o - -ci,l i r/c jr i
The impact of noise on school performance
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Gauging the Impact of Noise on Children's Learning:
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Based on the Federal Grant Proposal from the city to expand the capacity oft a Fuel Farm
to support an increase in aircraft operations, I'm in total opposition to any FONSI for the
Fuel Farm and demand for preparation of a full and comprehensive NEPA process
Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the GTU 2015 CIP (I 514GRGTN) and all federal
grants of the past decade.
Fk,'ollie and Lori Ford —
3801 Roble Grande Circ
Georgetown, TX 786281
Date: Public Hearing onOCt 91h at 10am
RE: Draft Environmental Assessment for the Proposed Fuel Facility
For the Georgetown Municipal Airport (GTU), Georgetown, TX
Name: My name is Lori Ford and I reside at 3801 Roble Grande Circle,
" I have lived in Georgetown for 17 years and have observed contentious and documented citizen
objections over those years to any increase or expansion of aircraft numbers and take offs and
landings at the airport. Disturbing noise both day and night, safety from falling aircraft, night
take offs and landings, air quality and environmental issues at homes, schools, and churches, and
adverse impacts on property values, have and continue to be of utmost citizen concerns and are
mine. I am aware that the Fuel Farm is only one of 25 components of the Airport 2015 CIP. It is
the adverse direct, indirect and cumulative environmental impacts of the 25 components of the
Airport 2015 CIP as a whole and of past federal grants that must be examined. I strongly oppose
any FONSI being issued for the Fuel Farm. Instead, I demand a full and complete
Environmental Impact Statement be prepared not only for the Airport 2015 CIP, but for all
federal grants issued for the GTU in the past decade. I further demand that the flawed NEPA
federal grant review process used by the city and TxDOT for our airport be corrected."
The citizens of Georgetown elect our city officials to protect our community and our
environment. Each one of our elected officials need to ask themselves if they are in good faith
doing this. If not, be a leader and change. You will fill good about the position you
are filling in a community in which you live.
U�•�
Colin & Charlotte O'Dowd October 8th2015
126 Serenada Drive
We have lived in Serenada addition, Georgetown for the past 10 years. In a straight
line, we are about 1/2a mile from the Airport.
During this time we have noticed a considerable increase in traffic through the airport,
especially jet aircraft. The level of noise has increased considerably.
Airport FAA information dated August 201h2015, advises that the property has the
following aircraft numbers based at Georgetown: -
225 Single engine aircraft
20 Multi engine aircraft
4 Jet aircraft
4 Helicopters
Approximately an average of 201 aircraft operations per day are advised.
As a retired couple on a fixed income we are definitely not interested in sitting here and
watching the value of our property decrease. We are willing to accept the airport as it
is, and do not want to see it increase in size and noise values. We are sure that any of
the "City Council Members" - should they live in our area would feel the very same
way.
Any increase or expansion of aircraft numbers, take offs and landings at the airport,
disturbing noise both day and night, safety from falling aircraft, night take offs and
landings, air quality and environmental issues at homes, schools, and churches, will
have an adverse impacts on property values. These all have, and continue to be of
utmost citizen concerns, and are ours.
We are also amazed that this is the ""First Ever Public Meeting" that the City fathers
have arranged for input from us ""The Owners" of the Airport, as citizens of
Georgetown that is managed by the City. The City has "'other public meetings" as
advertised in the local Sun newspaper for roads and buildings etc., but never before for
the Airport.
We are aware that the Fuel Farm is only one of 25 components of the Airport 2015
CIP. It is the adverse direct, indirect and cumulative environmental impacts of the 25
components of the Airport 2015 CIP as a whole and of past federal grants that must be
examined.
We strongly oppose any FONSI being issued for the Fuel Farm.
Instead, we demand a full and complete Environmental Impact Statement be prepared
not only for the Airport 2015 CIP, but for all federal grants issued for the GTU in the
past decade.
We further request that the flawed NEPA federal grant review process used by the city
and TxDOT for our airport be corrected.
Thank you.
Georgetown City Council Meeting Friday, October 9, 2015
My name is Dr. Dominic deKeratry. I live at 3301 Cavu Road, Georgetown, TX 78628; which fal
within District 5.
My wife, Dr. Esther Fields, and I co-own Georgetown Pulmonary Associates, PA and (along wit
our partner) are the only pulmonary and critical care physicians in the Georgetown area. We
have two young children, Nathanial and Liam. Liam is in a pre -K program at Frost Elementary
School. I
I am adamantly opposed to the issuance of a Finding of No Significant Impact" (FONSI)
pertaining to the proposal for a Federal Grant (1514GRGTN) to fund the Fuel Farm for
Georgetown Municipal Airport. I petition for a formal Environmental Impact Survey.
The funding is just a small part of a larger project proposed by the City and Tx Dot to expand
airport operations. The governing assumptions of the Executive Summary of the GT Airport
Business Analysis, established 'through discussions with airport and City staff' (not by citizens),
are that the GT Airport is a 'key public transportation facility, tied directly to the long-term
economic well-being of GV; and it specifically states that the potential upside for revenue is
tied to the fueling options (i.e. increasing aircraft volumes). I believe there are other, more
appropriate, opportunities for economic growth of GT.
The summary also references an extension to the runway 18/36 to increase volume and types
of aircraft. It also states that 'extending the runway would likely generate some local
neighborhood controversy' (which is why I and others are here).
I'm stunned by the marketing approach to attract business aircraft owners who make airport
decisions based upon criteria such as: convenience to their executive residences. Millions of
dollars would be spent to construct longer runways and that number doesn't even include costs
to move a roadway, or to purchase property (mine or my neighbors).
It boggles the mind that we would accommodate business executives so that they'll have a
short hop to their house at the cost of local and federal tax dollars that my neighbors and I pay;
so that we would ultimately be pushed right out of our own devalued homes. One of my
• who actually worked for the local government for 30 years would likely have his own
home condemned; and my personal home would be devalued to the point of threatening my
families entire financial stability....while at the same time my wife and I work up to 100 hours
per week to accommodate the critical care medical needs of this community.
The proposed enhancements (starting with the fuel farm) will negatively impact our
neighborhood, our livelihood, our quality of life and that of our children. The increased noise
pollution and the traffic unequivocally reduce our home and property values, including re-sak-,L
value.
There is also added disruption to our families sleep hygiene, especially with aircraft coming and
going in the early morning hours or at night (the volumes are noted on the latest Tower
Report). My son, Dominic Liam, suffers from pervasive developmental disorder on the Autism
spectrum. He requires consistent routines in his life with minimal disruption (including regular
sleep -wake cycles and avoidance of environmental stressors). Thus, the Draft Environmental
Assessment of this project, consistent with the expansion plans of the airport, threatens a
vulnerable population of the citizenry; specifically, my son.
Thank you for your time.
Respectfully,
Dominic R. DeKeratry, M1,
OPPOSITION STATEMENT
FUEL FARM DRAFT ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT (DEA)
PUBLIC HEARING
10:00 AM, FRIDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2015
OCTOBER GTAB MEETING
My name is Hugh C. Norris, Jr. My wife and I have resided at 4400 Luna Trail for over 16 years.
The Fuel Farm is only one of 25 elements of the Airport 2015 Capital Improvements Program, a
proposed 90%, $10 Million, federal grant program shown on page 360 and identified in this
DEA as proposed federal grant 1514GRGTN. This new federal grant is the current proposed
federal action.
To extract the Fuel Farm, a gas station for aircraft, from the 25 element group of 1514GRGTN, is
an illicit practice termed "segmenting". The practice is intentional mismanagement of the
Categorical Exclusion review level authorized by the National Environmental Policy Act
(NEPA) for proposed federal actions having no impact on the human environment. This
practice was challenged by my letter dated September 10, 2014 to TxDOT which has never been
addressed by any official. By reference I am making that letter a part of this statement in its
entirety. The "segmented" status of the Fuel Farm eliminates any consideration for its FONSI
determination and its levels of review contained in this DEA are irrelevant and without merit.
The new Categorical Exclusion dated May 12, 2015 for the proposed 1514GRGTN contained in
this revised DEA is invalid as contrary to FAA Order 1050.1F which excludes such
determinations when the proposed federal action is in the presence of any of the Extraordinary
Circumstances identified therein. The May 12, 2015 determination is directly or indirectly
impacted by at least 20 or more Extraordinary Circumstances.
Throughout the years of our residency we have observed contentious and documented
citizen objections to any increase or expansion of aircraft numbers and take offs and
landings at the airport. Disturbing noise both day and night, safety from falling aircraft,
night take offs and landings, air quality, environmental issues at homes, schools, and
churches, and adverse impacts on property values, have and continue to be of utmost
citizen concerns and are ours.
It is the adverse direct, indirect and cumulative environmental impacts of the 25
components of this proposed federal funding action as a whole and of past federal
grants that must be examined in this or any other hearing involving that program. I
strongly oppose any FONSI being issued for the Fuel Farm. Instead, I demand a full
and complete Environmental Impact Statement be prepared not only for the
1514GRGTN program, but for all federal grants issued for the airport in the past
decade. I further demand that the flawed NEPA federal grant review process used by
the city and TxDOT for our airport be corrected.
Speech presented at GTAB Public Hearing for Airport Improvement Project
Oct. 9, 2015
My name is Nancy Zenner and I reside with my husband, Pete, at 901 Bosque Trail. We bought
our property in 1985. It was the last home on a dead end street and had acreage on two sides
covered with beautiful oaks trees. We were neighbors to Georgetown Airport and enjoyed
watching the gliders and aircraft that used the airport. FAST FORWARD —TIMES HAVE
CHANGEDH The road has opened between Bosque Trail and Vortac Lane and is a major artery
for people leaving Serenada via Airport Road. All the acreage now has homes on it and the
airport traffic now involves many more planes along with jets and helicopters, flying in and out
at all hours of the day and night. Georgetown is no longer a sleepy bedroom community of
Austin. In my opinion, Georgetown Airport (GTU) has outgrown its present location!
I am opposed to any issuance of a notice of "no significant impact" for the fuel farm. The fuel
farm is only one of 25 components of the Airport 2015 C.I.P. We need to stop pumping money
into a land locked airport, surrounded by homes and with schools and churches in the flight
I!aths.
I am in favor of city and airport officials re -implementing the Georgetown Airport Advisory
Board that was dissolved in 2013. 1 would recommend a careful selection of people with
diverse backgrounds and aviation knowledge to study the best solution for our airport so it can
effectively serve our city and county but still ensure the safety and well being of our citizens
and those of surrounding communities as well as protecting our environment.
I request preparation of a full environmental impact statement (EIS) for the proposed 151JU
GRGTN federal grant for the 25 component Airport 2015 C.I.P. (Capital Improvement Plan I
Thank you for your time,
Nancy Zenner
901 Basque Trail, Georgetown, TX. 78628
512-863-4038
Speech presented at GTAB Public Hearing for Airport Improvement Project
Oct. 9, 2015
My name is Pete Zenner and I live with my wife, Nancy, at 901 Bosque Trail, just north
of the airport fence line.
There seems to be a misunderstanding on the city staffs' and council's part regarding
the desire of the ACC (Airport Concerned Citizens) to close the airport. Nothing is
further from the truth. We are a group of concerned citizens who would like for our
city government to be receptive to citizen input regarding airport issues and to make a
concerted effort to openly present to the public, all 25 components of the 2015 CIP
through television and newspaper outlets, as well as mail outs to the public. This
would be a perfect opportunity for city government to explain "in detail" each
component of the plan, not just the Fuel Farm Facility issue presented today. In my
opinon, having a hearing at 10:00 AM on a workday does not give much opportunity
for feedback from the entire citizenry.
Because of concerns for safety, noise increases, environmental issues, and a loss of
property values, I am opposed to any issuance of a Notice of No Significant Impact for
the Fuel Farm and request preparation of a full EIS (Environmental Impact Statement)
for the proposed 1514 GRGTN federal grant for the 25 component Airport 2015 CIP.
Thank you,
Pete Zenner
901 Bosque Trail, Georgetown, TX 7862
512-863-4038 1
My name is Cobby Caputo, I live at 1817 Terry Lane, Georgetown, TX 78628. My wife and I moved to
Georgetown 10 years ago. We had to make a rather quick decision on a home in Georgetown because
our home had been sold very quickly. We were concerned due to the proximity of the airport, but our real
estate agent assured us that it was just a small town airport.
Soon after we moved in, due to all the traffic generated at the airport I spoke with the Airport Manager
regarding the status of the airport. He assured me that the airport was self sufficient and required no city
funding. He also assured me that there were no plans to expand beyond it's current size. We are on the
south side of the airport, and virtually ever takeoff from the airport flies directly over our home. We
frequently have noisy jets and turboprops flying over our house at 5:30 in the morning, often
interrupting our sleep.
Over the past few years, it became public knowledge that business was lost to the the Pflugerville Airport
which opened on the 130 Toll way, a good distance away from their city. In addition, After a financial
evaluation of the Georgetown Airport it was discovered that the fuel charges and hanger rentals were not
nearly high enough to support the airport profitably. There have been numerous rumors concerning
expansion of the airport, but Georgetown city officials have continuously denied that there are any plans
to expand.
I would hate to have an increase in traffic into and out of the Georgetown Airport over my home and I
firmly oppose any further expansion of the airport beyond it's current capacity and in it's current location
Cabby S. Caputo
1817 Terry Lane, Georgetown, TX 78628
512-859-1385
pamco @. uddenlink.net
Statement for record:
My name is Robert Meeker and I live at 4404 Luna Trail. I am strongly opposed to any issuance of a
FQNSI for the proposed fuel farm, and I demand preparation of a full Environmental Impact Statement
for the proposed 1514GRGTN federal grant for the (25) component Airport 2015 CP.
The people of Georgetown are sending the GTAB and the GCC a message: WE are the bosses
government; not the other way around.
Robert
!!
512-825-8653
# ! #
This project, to build a new above ground fuel facility with 60°I more fuel capacity at the Georgetown
Airport, is designed to attract and support more and larger aircraft that will take off and land at the
Georgetown Airport (GTU). This project, to increase the stored fuel capacity by more that 60%, like
other planned development projects, will directly contribute to the increase of:
Aviation Noise (increased take offs and landings, maintenance, run -ups)
Community Safety (crashes into housing, schools, churches, business, etc.. 29 crashes to -date 9
deaths)
Hazardous Material Exposure ( airports store fuel and numerous toxic chemicals used for
maintenance and flight operations)
Property revaluation (a problematic noisy, airport, with safety concerns, and a long history of
citizen complaints will affect property values)
This project, is part of a much larger "airport Development agreement" between the City of Georgetown
and TxDot Aviation. As is defined in this agreement, it is in place specifically for the "development of a
public aviation facility". This agreement and all of the development projects that make it up are focused
on the the common goal to expand and grow capacity and aircraft operations at the Georgetown Airport
(GTU). This development project has been in place for many years (2005-2015). The 2014 version of
this agreement is posted on the city's web site.
In the opening statement of this Draft DEA, for the new fuel facility, the writer attempts to segment this
proposed action from the rest of the airport development projects in the much larger "airport
Development Agreement". This segmentation directly violates the National Environmental Policy act
law and EPA regulations.
One cannot "cherry pick" or segment an item from the much larger "airport Development agreement"
and and treat it as a benign item, with no affect on the surrounding community. This project, combined
with all the other airport development projects, will have a direct impact on increasing aviation noise,
community safety concerns, hazardous material exposure, and decreasing property values.
By EPA regulations this project ,along with all "airport Development agreement" projects, must be
viewed as a single airport development project. The entire project and all of it's elements must be
evaluated together to determine the short term and long term affects on the community and
surrounding environment.
In conclusion I urge everyone to reject this draft DEA. Instruct the writers to return to the drafting table
and put a process in place to perform a complete "Environmental Impact Statement" (EIS). A EIS that
takes into account the fuel farm, and all elements of the "airport Development agreement" project
plans. A process that will examine any practical alternatives to expansion, such as airport relocation.
The "Environmental Impact Statement" (EIS) is the only process that can fully examine the short/long
term direct/indirect impacts this and other projects in "Airport Development Agreement" will bear on
the surrounding community, it's citizens and environment.
Sincerely,
John Milford
I am a commercial pilot, single and multiengine aircraft, instrument airplane ratings, a
double deg +!' engineer, TauBeta
r KappaNu, thoseare ! ! honor
undersocieties, a retired college professor teaching engineering and aviation, and an avionics
inventor. No person ever sifting on the airport board, when we had one, or city council,
which some argue is not a representative democracy, has these credentials; which
explains our diametrically opposed positions. Now, I know how to fix ignorant, been
there done that, tried here, but discovered that stupid is forever.
I bought a house here, rented a hanger here for my airplane, and moved here in 1989
specifically because I needed a safe airport with a reliable concrete runway and an on
the field electronic instrument approach for low ceiling and or low visibility operations.
From the perspective of being ignored at both airport board meetings and city council
meetings, a frequent attendant, I have seen this airport become unsafe with no reliable
working runway and no on the field electronic instrument approach. I will not operate
here ceiling and orlow visibility..itheftof l 1 grant money,
poisoning of the airport environment, institution of anti race policies in who will be
allowed to use the airport, and many many other illegal things. I would very much like to
go into these in detail here now, but your three minute rule will not allow for even a brief
summaryof bullet points.+ •I willoffer rwritten submissionfor and move
What bothers me most is the continuing violations of federal law here. Public meetings
are not posted, happen at three o'clock in the morning, the public's business is
conducted in secret or even in total privacy. I have observed contentious and
documented citizen objections over the years since 1989 to any increase or expansion
of the airport, to aircraft numbers and take offs and landings at the airport. To disturbing
noise both day and night from large aircraft, to safety from falling aircraft, to
environmental issues impacting homes,
schools,and churches, and to adverse impacts
on propertyr .. These continue to be of iconcerns, are also
and are all ignored at the city council and by TxDot.
I am aware that the Fuel Farm is only one of 25 components of the Airport 2015 CIP. I
is the adverse direct, indirect and cumulative environmental impacts of the 25
components of the Airport 2015 CIP as a whole, and of past federal grants back to
1989, that must be examined. I strongly oppose any FONSI being issued for the Fuel
Farm. Instead, I demand a full and complete Environmental Impact Statement be
prepared • only •' the Airporti • but ! all federalgrants issued for the GTU
Statement to the Georgetown.. Texas GTAB Public Hearing
tri Fuel Tank Replacements at GTU Airport — September 9..2013 -
My name is Richard Ballentine and I reside at 212 Estrella Crossing, Georgetown, Texas. I am
retired from the Environmental Protection Agency's Office of Water in Washington, DC.
I want to thank the City of Georgetown for finally cracking the door open to its responsibilities
under the National Environmental Policy Act. This hearing is specifically limited to discussing
one element of the city's 25 element 2015 CIP which addresses construction and maintenance
activities at Georgetown's airport. That element is the removal of two below ground fuel
storage tanks.
In my comments on TXDOT's draft environmental assessment I noted that the City had been
fined some $7,000 by the Texas CEQ some years ago because of fuel leakage from these tanks.
I therefore noted that it would be prudent to carefully evaluate the site upon removal of the
old tanks to check for additional fuel leakage and perhaps the existence of a plume flowing
down gradient from the tanks location before backfilling. These tanks are located on the
recharge area for the Edwards Aquifer -- a critically important water resource in an increasingly
arid area.
I also want to point out a couple of areas that should be addressed by the City in an
environmental assessment or environmental impact statement for construction proposed in
the 2015 CIP. If the main runway is strengthened to handle much larger jet aircraft, and in fact
the take -offs and landings meet the City's projections, then there will be a major increase in
noise pollution and a much greater likelihood of much more severe damage from off -airport
Noise pollution per se has not been addressed in the draft environmental assessment. That
constitutes a major oversight since noise pollution adversely affects predominantly older
people. Many areas around the airport like Seranada and the Berry Creek subdivisions have a
significant percentage of older residents. The peer reviewed literature shows that noise is a
significant cause of cardiac events with subsequent hospitalizations being required.
Another issue not addressed is the safety issue. Residences, an elementary school, a middle
school and the Georgetown Charter School are in close proximity to the airport boundary.
Small Cessna's land at about 45 knots airspeed; private jets in excess of 100 knots airspeed and
are considerably heavier than a Cessna. An overshoot on landing by a jet could be disastrous.
Good morning. Myname isCally Ellington. |live at44O4Luna Trail. About 4yrs ago | ran away from the
noisy city life to come to Serenada to start a new life with my husband. I took off work today to be here
toexpress mnyopposition toany issuance ofa finding ofnosignificant impact for the fuel farm, and |
request preparation of a full environmental impact statement for the proposed 1514GRGTN federal
grant for the 25 component Airport 2Ol5C|P.Thank you.
DRAFT ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT FOR THE PROPOSED FUEL FARM
GEORGETOWN MUNICIPAL AIRPORT (GTU)
PUBLIC HEARING - 10-9-15
My name is Frances A. Desselle. I reside at 212 Estrella Crossing, Georgetown,, TX.
The Fuel Farm, the subject of this hearing, is one of 25 elements included in the
Georgetown Municipal Airport 2015 Capital Improvement Program. To extract
the Fuel Farm, from the 25 elements in the Airport 2015 Capital Improvement
Program, is a practice referred to as "segmentation", which directly violates the
spirit and intent of the National Environmental Policy Act. It is of the utmost
importance that the 2015 Airport Capital Improvement Program,. and its 25
components, be considered as a single airport development project in order to
assess and evaluate the impacts of the program on the Georgetown community,
its citizens and impacts to the environment.
I oppose the issuance of a Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI), being issued
for the Fuel Farm. An Environmental Impact Statement must be prepared for all
of the elements reflected in the Airport 2015 Capital Improvement Program, in
order to assess and evaluate impacts on human populations, impacts on the
ecosystem and other pertinent considerations.
Dear Ms. Kern, Originally emailed: Frkday, October 9,2O2S
Following is a summary of my comments at the GTAB, Fuel Farm DEA Public Hearing October 9,2015,
for inclusion inyour minutes.
Myname isCobhyS.Caputo and |live at18I7Terry Lane, Georgetown, Tx. 78628. W9ywife and |moved
toGeorgetown 1Oyears ago. VVehad tumake arather quick decision onahome inGeorgetown
because our home |nPlano, Tx. sold very quickly. VVewere concerned due tothe proximity ofthe
airport tothe house onTerry Ln.,but our Real Estate agent assured uathat itwas "just alittle bitty old
country airport"'.
Soon after we moved in due to all the traffic generated at the airport, I spoke with the then Airport
Manager regarding the status ofthe airport. Heassured nnethat the airport was self sufficient and
required no city funding. He also assured nnethat there were noplans toexpand beyond the current
size. We are onthe south side of the airport, and most ofthe year virtually every takeoff from the
airport flies directly over our home.
The jets started shortly after we moved in, and we frequently have noisy jets and turboprops flying over
our house at5:3Ointhe morning awakening usfrom sleep. Over the past few years, itbecame public
knowledge that business was lost to the new Pflugerville Airport opened on the 130 Toll way, which they
had the good sense to position a goodly distance from their city.
In addition, after a financial evaluation of the Georgetown Airport it was discovered that the fuel
charges and hanger rentals were not nearly high enough to support the airport profitably and changes
needed tobemade. There have been numerous rumors concerning expansion ofthis airport, but
Georgetown city officials have continuously denied that there are any plans to expand. Period.
Now comes discussion ofanew, larger fuel farm. Where's the need for this increase? Why isthe
increased size necessary? 1would hate tohave anincrease intraffic into and out ofthe Georgetown
Airport over nnyhome, and | firmly oppose any further expansion oFthe airport beyond its current
capacity and in its current location.
Cobby S. Caputo
1817 Terry Lane, Georgetown, Tx. 78628
512-869-1385 Pamcob@suddenlink.net