When the Port Authority took over Stewart International Airport from National Express Group in November 2007, it pledged to keep surrounding municipalities in the loop.
Accordingly, 30 people from varying backgrounds ”“
environmentalists, think tanks, economic advisers, business owners and local stakeholders ”“ were selected for a Community Advisory Panel, which meets with Stewart officials quarterly.
At its Sept. 18 meeting, the Port Authority”™s general manager, Diannae Ehler, gave the panel members an overview of what the airport is doing during these troubled economic times. For Stewart, Skybus”™ abrupt bankruptcy in March and the loss of Air Tran in early September has hurt passenger numbers. To continue on its mission to create a strong regional airport, she said, the Port Authority is working to bring in airline-related companies and services to diversify income streams and expand services.
Ehler said the Port Authority is moving forward with its $500 million capital plan for airport upgrades; three of six contracts sent out for bid were awarded to companies in the Hudson Valley. The Port Authority has awarded $24.8 million in contracts to date.
Maureen Radl, co-chairwoman of watchdog organization Ulsterites Fight Overflight Noise, asked why the Port Authority does not permit a public comment period after panel meetings.
Ehler said the purpose of the panel was to involve the community in a forum, where panel members could voice their communities”™ comments and concerns to the Port Authority.
Ralph Trigale, Port Authority manager for government and community relations, said the purpose of the panel is to gather information and exchange ideas.
“(The panel) was formed to allow the communities to bring concerns or comments to us and to create a dialogue between the (Port Authority) and the community, who are represented by the panel.”
However, he said, public comments are taken at the conclusion of the Stewart Airport Commission meetings, a separate entity from the community group whose members are appointed by the state Department of Transportation. The commission met Sept. 23 (see related story); it meets every other month.
The Community Advisory Panel”™s next meeting is scheduled for Thursday, Dec. 4, at 5 p.m. The public is invited, but seating is limited.
