CRESTVIEW — Several residents voiced opposition Tuesday to a proposed zoning change that would prohibit a variety of aircraft in and around East Pass and Crab Island.
The comments came during the first of two public hearings before the Okaloosa County Commission on a proposed “aircraft restricted zone.”
The county began considering the idea earlier this year in response to a dramatic increase in helicopter sightseeing and general aircraft congestion. County Commissioner Kelly Windes has said it’s too risky to allow aircraft activity over an area already crowded with charter boats, personal watercraft, kayaks, swimmers and rubber floats.
Several residents accused the county of wanting to put Timberview Helicopters, which has operated off a barge in Destin Harbor, out of business because of noise complaints.
Timberview owner Justin Johnson told commissioners he’s been unfairly targeted.
“I am the one under attack, I feel like, anyway,” he said. “ … I want to work with Destin. I want to promote the area.”
Under the proposal, the use of hang gliders, helicopters, parasails, hot air balloons, seaplanes, glider excursions, water-propelled jet packs and similar devices would be prohibited in and around East Pass and Crab Island.
Local seaplane builder Michael Percy, who tests and demonstrates his planes in the area, said the restrictions could potentially keep him from operating in Destin entirely. He added that the county has offered a “weak justification” for the restricted zone.
One resident who lives near Timberview Helicopters' barge in the harbor supported the restrictions. He said the noise from the flights was “horrendous.”
County commissioners made no comments during Tuesday’s hearing. They will hold a final public hearing Nov. 19 in Fort Walton Beach.
Contact Daily News Staff Writer Kari C. Barlow at 850-315-4438 or kbarlow@nwfdailynews.com. Follow her on Twitter @KariBnwfdn.