Anti-Airport Measure Opposed by Council

The county’s economic future could be severely limited if Measure S successfully blocks a commercial airport at El Toro Marine Corps Air Station, City Council members maintain.

The council has unanimously aligned with those fighting Measure S, a ballot initiative that would overturn the 1994 Measure A, which calls for a commercial airport to be considered as planners debate uses for the military base after it closes in 1999.

Cities across the county are taking stands on the issue, which will be on the March 26 ballot.

Proponents of the measure say they fear that an airport would bring noise, pollution and devalued property. Those against Measure S argue that the county would be giving up $1.5 billion in potential annual revenue from an expanded tourist and business base.

“I feel the quality of the services we deliver to citizens is dependent on the economic success of the county,” Mayor Joanne Coontz told the City Council. What happens to El Toro, she said, is a big factor in that success.

Councilman Mark Murphy said that more than $2.5 million is already being spent on planning for the airport and that halting those plans could dull the county’s competitive edge.

“There’s a real potential for lost opportunity here,” he said. “The voters have spoken” by approving Measure A, he said. “They want the planning process to go forward.”