Members of Minnesota’s aviation community will have several opportunities to weigh in on proposed changes to state airport zoning laws at a series of outreach meetings scheduled across the state during May and June.
The 10 meetings will be hosted by the Minnesota Department of Transportation’s Office of Aeronautics. The Office of Aeronautics has worked with a zoning advisory committee since November 2013 to develop the proposed changes to current airport zoning and compatible land-use statutes.
AOPA has participated in the advisory panel’s work. Members are encouraged to attend one of the sessions between May 7 and June 10 and provide feedback on the impact of proposed changes on their local airports.
"AOPA is pleased to see the Minnesota Department of Transportation take a proactive role in revision of the state’s airport zoning laws and regulations to ensure that existing airport zoning is appropriately protecting the interests of airports, their users, and the communities surrounding Minnesota’s airports," said Bryan Budds, AOPA Great Lakes regional manager.
Minnesota currently has three classes of safety zones established to restrict uses of land that could be dangerous to aircraft operations or affect the safety and property of persons on the ground.
State officials encouraged local and regional planners and zoning administrators to attend the sessions, as well as airport zoning board members, airport commissioners and managers, and "anyone interested in airport safety and planning."
Members can check this location schedule and map for the outreach meeting most convenient to attend.
