Supes move closer to extending JWA pact

An extension of the settlement agreement that places limitations on John Wayne Airport began its final approach Tuesday, according to a statement from the Orange County Board of Supervisors.

Supervisors agreed to authorize a memorandum of understanding with the city of Newport Beach, the Airport Working Group (AWG) and Stop Polluting Our Newport (SPON). All parties would need to agree.

“The MOU is an important step toward extending the landmark John Wayne Airport Settlement Agreement,” the supervisors said in a press release. “The MOU, previously executed by the city, AWG and SPON, defines roles and responsibilities with respect to preparation of an environmental impact report (EIR) pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).”

The environmental review would exam the potential impacts of a 15-year extension of the settlement agreement, according to the press release. The review is expected in early 2014.

A settlement on airport hours of operation, noise, growth and other activity was agreed to in 1985, extended with alteration in 2003 and is set to expire in 2015.

The Newport Beach City Council in March agreed to extend the agreement.

—Staff Reports

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