I am writing to express my deep concern about the upcoming meeting of the Sussex County Planning & Zoning Commission Thursday, March 9, where it will consider the Twin Masts application for a densely packed subdivision of more than 240 homes. As a resident of Sussex County, I believe it is imperative that we prioritize the health and safety of our community.
P&Z operates under Delaware code, Title 9 Section 6802, which states that its purpose is to promote the health, safety, prosperity and general welfare of our community, and to secure coordinated plans for land use. However, the proposed Twin Masts subdivision is directly under the runway approach to the Eagle Crest Airport, only 1,600 feet away. This means that aircraft will be passing directly over these homes at an altitude of 200 feet or less, generating numerous noise complaints and putting both pilots and homeowners at risk.
It is crucial that we modify the site plan to increase the safety of residents and pilots of Eagle Crest Airport while recognizing the property rights of the developer Twin Masts. It is alarming to know that both P&Z and the developer were aware of the existence of the airport, but made no effort to reach out to them to participate in the site plan. While they may argue they had no legal requirement to do so, it is important to prioritize safety and the general welfare of the community in planning decisions, and often all that takes is basic common sense and working with the community.
As the county trustees appointed the members of P&Z, I urge them to remind the commission of its primary duty, which is the health and safety of Sussex County residents. It is essential that P&Z works with the aviation community at Eagle Crest to make the Twin Masts subdivision safer for all residents, instead of just rubber-stamping the proposal.
I believe that together we can create a safer and healthier community for all residents. Thank you for your attention to this matter.
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