Opponents Running Out of Time

As the effort to relocate the airport methodically moves forward, relocation opponents have fewer and fewer levers to slow or stop the project.

Negotiations for the sale of the airport property are progressing, and a contract is expected in October.

The sale of the airport will allow the Airport Authority to finalize its financial plan, which in turn will clear the way for a ground breaking before the end of the year. Perhaps before Thanksgiving.

Soon, opponents will have to “fish or cut bait” as the saying goes. If they move forward with a lawsuit, there are risks involved. Earlier this month, a judge ruled that perpetual opponent Diane Brown had brought a frivolous legal challenge against four county land use amendments.

The judge has ordered Brown to pay attorneys fees for the defendants because in her lawsuit, Brown made claims for which she had no evidence.

So, the stakes have been raised.

If Friends of PFN or any other opponent chooses to bring suit, they will need real evidence and sound arguments or they may face the same consequences as Ms. Brown.

I completely support citizens' rights to challenge governmental decisions – but any legal challenge has to meet a basic credibility threshold, in my opinion.