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2003-07-09 Airport Relations Commission Minutes2003-07-09 Airport Relations Commission Minutes.txt[1/25/2018 4:24:19 PM] CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS DAKOTA COUNTY, MINNESOTA AIRPORT RELATIONS COMMISSION MINUTES July 9, 2003 The regular meeting of the Mendota Heights Airport Relations Commission was held on Wednesday, July 9, 2003, at 7:00 p.m., in the Large Conference Room at City Hall, 1101 Victoria Curve, Mendota Heights, Minnesota. The following Commissioners were present: Scott Beaty, Vern Edstrom, Gregg Fitzer, Liz Petschel, John Roszak, Mike Polovny, and Ellsworth Stein. Staff present: Cari Lindberg, City Administrator; and Bonita Sullivan, Recorder. Ms. Sullivan took the minutes. Also present: Chad Leqve, MAC; Commissioner Bert McKasy, MAC; Commissioner Tom Foley, MAC; Scott Skramseth, MAC. Not Present: Jack Vitelli, Council Member and NOC Representative. Chair Beaty introduced Commissioners Bert McKasy and Tom Foley. He explained that there were recent changes in the representation at the MAC noting that Commissioner Foley was recently appointed to represent Mendota Heights. He introduced the Commissioners to the ARC. Commissioner McKasy acknowledged the changes stating that the switch was bad news for him as his heart would always be in Mendota Heights. He explained that Mendota Heights is very fortunate to have Tom Foley and provided an overview of his background for the Commission. Approval of Minutes Approval of the June 11, 2003 minutes. A motion was made by Commissioner Roszak, seconded by Commissioner Petschel to approve the minutes for June 11, 2003 as presented. Motion carried 7-0. Unfinished/New Business A. Commissioner Bert McKasy, MAC /Chad Leqve, MAC: Discussion with MAC Commissioner Chad Leqve, MAC, reviewed the list of issues the ARC Commission had provided stating that he put together a presentation for the review and discussion. He reviewed the concept of excursions and leaking from the corridor noting the operations that tend to Commission Meeting – July 9, 2003 Mendota Heights Airport Relations Commission wander outside the corridor. He reviewed the past 13 months with the Commission to show how they look in the north corridor. He explained that what they have seen is a downward turn in addition to deviations to the south. He reviewed what is taking place in the corridor noting that they also discussed issues with the Air traffic Controllers in order to get a better feel for what is taking place. He stated that they saw an increase to a slight degree noting that they also see approximately 95% corridor compliance with some slippage to 88%, which has raised concerns. He stated the fleet mix at MSP is drastically changing due to what has happened since September 11 and that the airlines have taken a very aggressive approach to their management of supply and demand. He explained that this has really contributed to the influx of regional jets into the airport. He stated that there is a reduction in the number of turbo prop aircraft noting that it has had a very significant impact and reviewed with the Commission. He explained that the turbos are 2003-07-09 Airport Relations Commission Minutes.txt[1/25/2018 4:24:19 PM] being phased out with regional jet aircraft, which has required a significantly greater use of all three headings in the corridor. He stated that the increase in the deviations from the corridor is within 5% of the south corridor due to the changing fleet mix and increased use of the southern track in the corridor. He stated that they have discussed these issues with the FAA and Cindy Green adding that Ms. Green has been very responsive and is working with her staff to address the concerns. Commissioner Petschel referenced the graphs Mr. Leqve used in his last presentation and asked what was done to alleviate the leakage within the corridor. Mr. Leqve reviewed the new public input process regarding noise issues stating that the new process has helped address this issue. He acknowledged that the 120-degree heading being used most often in the corridor is true stating that it is an operational necessity and reviewed with the Commission. Commissioner Petschel clarified that this would alleviate the leakage out of the north. Commissioner Roszak asked if there was any more headway on the GPS issue and reviewed the discussion held with Ms. Green. Mr. Leqve stated that they met with their GPS expert for an update noting that they are aggressively engaged in the first round of the GPS deployment. He stated that Honeywell was recently awarded the contract to provide the GPS ground systems and reviewed the contract with the Commission. He stated that lawmakers are viewing this as a very serious solution to several issues adding that the Federal Government is very dedicated to GPS. He stated that the current issue is in determining how to get the airlines to equip their aircrafts. He stated that they are moving in the right direction and are making sure that MSP is in the forefront of the project. He stated that ongoing maintenance of the facility is a critical issue and that it is very important for the MAC to be involved at the front end of the project. Commissioner Edstrom asked what it would cost to equip each aircraft with the GPS system. Mr. Leqve explained that the aircraft manufacturers have not issued a solid cost figure for the equipment. He stated that they are presently working to determine the cost noting that it would be approximately $250,000 to $500,000 per aircraft. Commission Meeting – July 9, 2003 Mendota Heights Airport Relations Commission Mr. Leqve stated that in 1998-1999 they did an evaluation to determine how often the ‘crossing in the corridor’ procedure was used. He explained that as a result of the evaluation and a follow-on study they found that the usage increased by 20%. He stated that they are holding at 20% and are fairly consistent with their use of the procedure. He stated that this has been discussed with Ms. Green noting the recent turnover with Air Traffic Controllers. He explained that the procedure is one that requires knowledge, skill and a comfort level that has to be acquired through seasoning of the job. He stated that they have several new, younger controllers, who are not yet fully confident in using this process. He stated that they continue to work with the new controllers noting that the comfort level would take time. Chair Beaty clarified the issues concerning the ‘crossing in the corridor’ procedure and agreed that lack of use is an air controller issue. Mr. Leqve explained the intended use for the ‘crossing in the corridor’ procedure and reviewed the crossing factors with the Commission. He stated that they have seen considerable turnover with veteran air controllers. He reviewed the issues noting that it could become a safety issue. Chair Beaty stated that this is one of their concerns. He stated that they should be working with the newer air controllers, providing them with the education and knowledge that would increase their comfort levels. Mr. Leqve assured the Commission that they are working very closely with the new air controllers stating that one cannot a lecture comfort level. He acknowledged Chair Beaty’s concerns stating that they continue to communicate with Ms. Green. Mr. Leqve stated that the FAA is still committed to the program and that they would 2003-07-09 Airport Relations Commission Minutes.txt[1/25/2018 4:24:19 PM] remain committed. He stated that use of this procedure within the corridor remains a top priority. Mr. Leqve reviewed NADP’s and issues with the close end procedures with the Commission. Commissioner Petschel reviewed Mendota Heights’ concerns with the close end procedures. She referenced a meeting held several years ago where they tried to raise concerns regarding the use of the 30’s and reviewed their request for a test of the close end procedures. Mr. Leqve explained that the evaluation they did was to ensure that it was being flown. He further explained that they did not do a noise level test at that time. Commissioner Petschel clarified that they never wanted a permanent commitment to end use of the craft. She explained that all they wanted was a noise level test and it did not happen. She further stated that was their only issue. Mr. Leqve reviewed the noise abatement departure profiles with Commission. He noted the nighttime restrictions stating that the volunteer program has been in place since 1993. He provided an overview of the program for the Commission. He stated that how they update their nighttime restrictions for the airport was discussed at great length and reviewed the changes with the Commission. He explained that they are requesting voluntary compliance with the airlines. He further explained that compliance is not mandatory as it is a public use facility and reviewed with the Commission. Commission Meeting – July 9, 2003 Mendota Heights Airport Relations Commission Mr. Leqve stated that they have not implemented any new programs. He explained that anytime a public use facility uses government funds to improve the facility they are required to provide and sign documents that outline the operation of the facility. Chair Beaty asked if there was a way to apply additional charges to an airline that flies or lands during the nighttime hours. Mr. Leqve explained that the FAA would view this as a restriction. He stated that considering the economic environment the operators would fight the issue tooth and nail. Mr. Leqve reviewed the departure operations for the north parallel runway and provided an overview of the revised runway system that incorporates Runway 17-35 to the Commission. He stated that they received considerable input from MASAC throughout the process and provided an overview of the study process to the Commission. He stated that slight adjustments had been made within the process and reviewed the changes with the Commission. He noted that the changes environmentally are not very significant. Chair Beaty stated that the percentage of use was 8% adding that it has increased to 9%. He expressed concerns stating that it is the Commission’s hope that it does not continue to increase. Mr. Leqve acknowledged the increase stating that they have given this issue much thought and consideration. He stated that it is unfortunate that they cannot always give each area what they want. Chair Beaty asked what percentage would identify it as an environmental concern. He noted that the numbers would increase as operations at the airport increase adding that they want to be sure it is kept at a reasonable level. Mr. Leqve acknowledged their concerns and assured the Commission that this is an issue that they definitely keep at the forefront. He further stated that it is a point well taken noting that they are doing the best job possible to incorporate input on use from all affected Cities. Commissioner Petschel asked what the original percentage was that they agreed to. She also asked how far do they need to depart before environmental concerns become an issue. Mr. Leqve explained that in a residential area it could increase to 1.5pb. He explained that anything beyond that would require an environmental impact study. He stated that all of this had been done by the MASAC in order to utilize the highest degree of uniformity. 2003-07-09 Airport Relations Commission Minutes.txt[1/25/2018 4:24:19 PM] Commissioner Petschel referenced the percentages and explained that the trust level is very low in the community with respect to runway use and the implementation of the new runway and how it would impact Mendota Heights. She stated that they are concerned that agreements would not be kept and reviewed the issues with Mr. Leqve. She explained that their biggest concern is with the runway use not with the fleet mix and the parameters that have been identified. Commission Meeting – July 9, 2003 Mendota Heights Airport Relations Commission Commissioner Roszak clarified the contract issues from an ARC perspective. He explained that issues such as keeping the airport where it is versus moving it further south, the creation of the new runway, and adding percentages of the environmental impact study are all carried in a contract. He further stated that they consider the agreement to be very sacred adding that they would do what City Council asks of them to enforce the agreement. Commissioner McKasy acknowledged their concerns noting it is very important that their concerns are documented. Chair Beaty stated that the Commission would like to receive reports that show, on a monthly basis, the use levels of the new runway. Commissioner Petschel assured Mr. Leqve that he has provided the Commission with information and updates and explained that the ARC receives many calls from residents regarding these issues and it helps to have current information that can be provided to the residents. Commissioner Roszak asked Mr. Leqve to review their definition of what constitutes a violation. Mr. Leqve explained that they take a situation, no action vs. action, and run a contour for both scenarios. He further explained that they then compare the two scenarios to determine if there is a change. Chair Beaty asked if they also include their information from the ANOMS. Mr. Leqve confirmed that they do. Chair Beaty asked how often is this done. Mr. Leqve stated that it is only done when requested due to the costs. Mr. Leqve reviewed the FAA funding process with the Commission and explained that many of the issues are actually national policy issues not local issues. Chair Beaty asked if the MAC has reviewed the Australian model. Mr. Leqve stated that he has briefly reviewed the Australian model but the MAC, as a whole, has not. Mr. Leqve reviewed the ground run-up procedures with the Commission. He referenced a monitoring study from 1999, stating that they found, as part of the evaluation, what was taking place in community. He explained that the perception in the community was that there was continuous noise from the airport when in reality they were experiencing consecutive takeoff conditions. He stated that they also found, as part of the evaluation that over 50% of the run-ups are done at idle power and on average last 10 to 15 minutes. Mr. Leqve provided an overview of the proposed installation of a 35-foot Blast fence with the Commission. He stated that the MASAC reviewed the proposal to determine if anything should be done and decided, based on recommendations, that it was not prudent expenditure of funds. Chair Beaty stated that they are in support of any options that would help decrease or eliminate noise to the community. Commission Meeting – July 9, 2003 Mendota Heights Airport Relations Commission Commissioner Edstrom asked how many run-up pad locations are utilized. Mr. Leqve clarified that there is only one pad area that is utilized for approximately 90% of the maintenance run-ups. Commissioner Edstrom clarified that the maintenance area points to the southeast. Mr. Leqve clarified that the maintenance area actually points to the northwest. He explained that to build a new enclosure would cost approximately $8 2003-07-09 Airport Relations Commission Minutes.txt[1/25/2018 4:24:19 PM] million and reviewed the requirements with the Commission. Mr. Leqve provided the Commission with a brief NOC Committee update. He stated that the NOC Committee conducted their first meeting on June 26, 2003 adding that it was a very good and productive meeting. He stated that the NOC is currently scheduled to meet on July 17 and August 21, 2003. He reviewed the recommendations made by the NOC noting that their focus is the Part 150 Update and the Forecast. He reviewed the NOC Committee process with the Commission noting that it would also include public hearings. He stated that the NOC Committee meetings are held at the Metropolitan Airport Commission General Office Building in the Lindberg Conference Room at 1:30 p.m. Mr. Leqve stated that there are several communication options available to the public noting the Quarterly Airport Noise Report, Public Hearings, NOC Oversite Committee, the Complaint Hotline, the MAC website and their newsletter. City Administrator Lindberg asked Mr. Leqve for copies his presentation. Mr. Leqve stated that he would forward a copy for her review. Commissioner McKasy referenced the Rogers Lake East Neighborhood Group stating that the MAC Staff and Commissioners have received several communications from them. He explained that the Commissioners and the FAA have reviewed their allegations adding that they do not agree with many of the issues. He stated that they have come to a point where they would have to agree to disagree. Commissioner Foley thanked the Commission stating that he had wanted to participate in this initial meeting adding that it is his hope to be invited back again. He stated that he is fairly easy to contact and encouraged the Commission to call with any concerns. Commissioner McKasy thanked the Commission for their invitation and commended Mr. Leqve for a great job with his presentation. Acknowledge Receipt of Various Reports/Correspondence: The Commission briefly reviewed the following documents: a. Letter dated June 11 to Cindy Green Regarding Update on Use of Magnetic Ground Tracking Departure Procedure. b. Letter from Rogers Lake East Airport Noise Reduction Committee dated June 14, 2003. Commission Meeting – July 9, 2003 Mendota Heights Airport Relations Commission c. Letter from Rogers Lake East Airport Noise Reduction Committee dated June 10, 2003. d. Letter from MAC regarding Publication of Noise Exposure Map. e. Memorandum from Chad Leqve regarding June 15, 2003 MAC Full Commission Action Calling for NOC Review of the Forecasting Assumptions. f. Correspondence from Roy Fuhrmann with Patrick Hollister regarding Part 150 Revision Process. g. MSP Noise Oversight Committee June 26, 2003 Meeting Agenda. h. April 2003 MSP Noise News. i. MAC April 2002 vs. April 2003 Operations Comparison. j. MSP Noise Oversight Committee Membership Roster. k. MACNOISE What’s New. l. MAC Planning and Environment Committee June 4, 2003 Regular Monthly Meeting Minutes. m. MAC Full Commission June 16, 2003 Regular Monthly Meeting Minutes. n. May 2003 Eagan/Mendota Heights Departure Corridor Analysis. o. May 2003 Technical Advisor’s Report. 2003-07-09 Airport Relations Commission Minutes.txt[1/25/2018 4:24:19 PM] p. Airport Noise Report – Volume 15, Numbers 18, 19, 20. q. Commissioner Tom Foley Bio dated July 9, 2003. OTHER COMMENTS OR CONCERNS The Commission held a general discussion of the MAC presentation. Commissioner Edstrom clarified that Runway 35 is for landing only and that Runway 17 is not listed as a takeoff. Chair Beaty clarified that it is his understanding that they would use it as a takeoff point to the south. Commissioner Edstrom noted that according to the presentation Runway 17 is not identified for takeoff use to the south. Commissioner Roszak suggested getting further clarification. City Administrator Lindberg stated that Administrative Assistant Hollister would no longer be attending the ARC meetings. She stated that she would be the main point of contact for the ARC regarding all issues and concerns. Chair Beaty asked if City Administrator Lindberg would be attending the meetings that Administrative Assistant Hollister was attending previously. City Administrator Lindberg stated that she would be attending most meetings including the NOC. City Administrator Lindberg asked for an update on the Rogers Lake East group. The Commission provided an update of the progress stating that presently the group has submitted a petition to the FAA and are currently waiting for a response. Commissioner Petschel explained that the FAA is required to respond within a certain period of time. Chair Beaty provided City Administrator Lindberg with an ARC update stating they have completed their Action Plan. He suggested that she review the Action plan adding that the Commission should then determine when to present the Action Plan to the Council. Commission Meeting – July 9, 2003 Mendota Heights Airport Relations Commission City Administrator Lindberg stated that she would get a copy from Administrative Assistant Hollister and include it on the next ARC agenda for discussion. Commissioner Edstrom asked for an update on the housing development. City Administrator Lindberg reviewed with the Commission stating that they have received the historical study commissioned by the developer and that it has been forwarded to Barr Engineering for their review. Commissioner Petschel provided City Administrator Lindberg with an update regarding the Commission’s decision not to distribute ARC minutes without ARC Commission approval. Commissioner Edstrom asked if they have received any feedback from Council Member/NOC Representative Vitelli on the NOC meetings. City Administrator Lindberg stated that she received an email from him stating that the meeting went very well and reviewed with the Commission. Chair Beaty stated that they had forwarded documents and information Council Member/NOC Representative Vitelli regarding the RUS and the Part 150 update adding that they have not received a response. Commissioner Petschel reviewed the documents and key questions based on the findings with the Commission. She referenced a meeting that she and Commissioner Stein attended noting that SMAC is stating that the noise levels from runway use are the biggest issues. She reviewed SMAC concerns with the Commission stating that this issue will be back before the NOC at their August meeting. Commissioner Edstrom asked how often MAC meets. Chair Beaty stated that the MAC meets once a month in addition to several sub-committees who meet throughout the month. 2003-07-09 Airport Relations Commission Minutes.txt[1/25/2018 4:24:19 PM] Commissioner Petschel reviewed pending legislation items with the Commission. She explained that the airlines would be required to prove that they allow all airlines to compete fairly or would not receive federal funding. Commissioner Roszak asked if the ARC Commission would be taking any kind of position regarding the assumptions data. Chair Beaty explained that they would like to wait and see what comes from the NOC on this issue. Commissioner Roszak suggested that the ARC put together a list of issues to present to Council for their approval to present to the NOC for their review. Commissioner Petschel expressed concerns that the ARC Commission would not have an opportunity to discuss the issues before the next MAC meeting. She explained that the MAC is meeting at the beginning of August with the intent to vote on these issues noting that the NOC Committee and the ARC Commission would not meet again until after the August MAC meeting. City Administrator Lindberg stated that she would contact Council Member/NOC Representative Vitelli to discuss the issues and provide the Commission with an update. Commission Meeting – July 9, 2003 Mendota Heights Airport Relations Commission Commissioner Edstrom suggested scheduling a meeting with Council Member/NOC Representative Vitelli to discuss the issues prior to the next NOC meeting. City Administrator Lindberg stated that she would coordinate a timeframe and update the Commission. Commissioner Roszak asked if the ARC Commission would like to create a position statement. Chair Beaty agreed that the ARC Commission should probably create a position statement noting that he would like feedback from Council Member/NOC Representative Vitelli. He suggested that the ARC Commission meet prior to their meeting with Council Member/NOC Representative Vitelli to formulate their issues and concerns. City Administrator Lindberg stated that she would contact Council Member/NOC Representative Vitelli to determine his availability for the week of July 21st and coordinate with the ARC Commission. The ARC Commission decided tentatively to schedule the meeting for Thursday, July 24 at 11:00 a.m. Chair Beaty referenced Ms. Green stating that if the ARC Commission does not receive a response before the next ARC meeting that they should issue another letter. The Commission agreed. The Commission agreed, by consensus, to adjourn the meeting at 9:10 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Bonita Sullivan TimeSavers Off Site Secretarial, Inc.