Thu, Sep 29, 2011
Burlington Residents Want New Neighbor's R44 Banned
A resident of Burlington, Connecticut is proving that old saying
that forgiveness is easier to get than permission. Businessman Paul
Blanchette wants to fly his Robinson R44 (file photo of similar R44
shown) from a helipad at his new home on Ventres Way, just as he
did from his previous home on Daniel Trace, but his neighbors are
rallying against him.
The Hartford Courant reports the neighbors have organized as the
"Burlington Residential Airspace Safety Organization," a name which
seems ripe for a showdown with the FAA over federal precedent in
controlling airspace. They're asking the town council to create an
ordinance banning aviation activity in residential areas.
One problem with that approach is that aviation activities have
historically been allowed in other parts of town. First Selectwoman
Catherine Bergstrom notes Blanchette has complied with all relevant
ordinances in operating his aircraft from his previous address, and
notes, "any enforcement action at this time would be selective and
inconsistent with past practice."
The neighbors are stretching a bit to make a case. One says he
fears the helicopter will start a forest fire, shutting off the
only access by road to the neighborhood, and trapping residents in
their homes.
Blanchette says he would address his neighbors' concerns, but so
far, they haven't been willing to talk to him. He's made it clear
he is willing to adhere to an existing FAA limit of 36 takeoffs and
landings per year from residential areas.
The Burlington Board of Selectmen voted this week to table
discussion of a new ordinance pending further study.
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