From the Lansing State Journal

Monday update: Charlotte airport plan on hold until study done
Council vote on expansion might happen in spring

Lansing State Journal

CORRECTION: Benton Township no longer is being considered a site for the possible relocation of Charlotte’s Fitch H. Beach Municipal Airport. A story on Page 1B of Monday’s State Journal was incorrect.

CHARLOTTE - The final decision regarding Fitch H. Beach Airport's future now rests with the City Council.

The council is waiting on the results of Mead & Hunt's feasibility study, which are expected in April. The firm has been hired by the city to conduct a study on expanding the airport's 3,500-foot runway to 5,000 feet.

City officials have expressed interest in expanding the existing airport or relocating it to accommodate corporate jets from area companies that have expressed an interest in using the facility to conduct business.

Advertisement

But several on the seven-member council say now is not the time to decide where they stand, and they will reserve judgment until Mead & Hunt presents its findings and recommendation.

Mayor Deb Shaughnessy fielded an onslaught of public opinions last week regarding the relocation or expansion of the airport. More than 100 residents visited her office Wednesday.

Shaughnessy took comments from the crowd of concerned residents and said she welcomes comments from anyone in favor of an airport expansion. Still, she said the negative feedback is outweighing the positive.

"With the information that I have thus far, as far as relocation, it seems there are a lot of negative feelings about the relocation of the airport," she said.

Councilman Tim Lewis said he will be seeking out the opinions of city residents before deciding what direction he would like to see taken with the airport's future.

"I feel my task is going to be, and one I'm willing to take on is, to find out what residents of the city of Charlotte proper feel regarding the airport use and the future," he said.

Meanwhile, City Attorney Thomas Hitch has said the council could exercise the right of eminent domain to condemn property for use in the expansion or relocation of the airport. Hitch said government authorities can utilize the tool even if the property is located outside its boundaries.

Mead & Hunt has identified five possible relocation sites for the airport to date. Two are located in Eaton Township, where officials have stated a formal objection to housing the airport.

Three other relocation sites, in Walton, Benton and Carmel townships, are being considered as well.