The issue of Gwinnett County Airport is too important not to understand the details. Go to www.flybriscoe.com and learn more about the subject which can create jobs, sustain the economy in Gwinnett and ad convenience.

I agree that the issue of the Gwinnett County Airport is too important not to understand the details. To fully understand this issue, it is important to have FACTS, not speculation. Taxpayers are tired of false promises of jobs, economic development, etc. Remember the promises that were made about the federal stimulus bill? How did that work out for the taxpayers? Even though Fly Gwinnett Forward did change their website to promise “hundreds of jobs” instead of the 20,000 they originally claimed, Brett Smith is still claiming that 20,000 to 30,000 jobs will be created. If FGF has realized that no one believes 20,000 jobs will be created by Propeller’s plans for Briscoe, why is Brett Smith still trying to convince people that his project will miraculously create tens of thousands of jobs?

The Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce has recently announced the expansion of companies in Gwinnett County such as Ricoh, Spectral Response and Bagcraft that may create more jobs than can be expected by bringing in the controversial Propeller project at Briscoe. These companies are creating jobs without asking the taxpayers to be responsible for a bailout in the event of failure, reducing the value of homes in a 3 mile radius of their operation, and decreasing the quality of life for over 60,000 residents.

To FlyBricoe, (ops Mr. Brett Smith) nice try but your website is all fantasy.
Not 1 single privatization attempt in the FAA program has worked in over 13 years. If commercial flights go forward Briscoe will have same problems facing Branson MO, which is Bankruptcy! Brett why don’t you apply to manage and takeover Branson I bet you can get it cheap!
:http://www.bondbuyer.com/issues/119_397/missouri_branson_airport_debt-1015612-1.html
It is amazing that Propellers management brag’s on their website about their experience at running EOS Airlines. Well they could not manage and bankrupted EOS airlines! If they can't run an airline how can they run an airport like Briscoe! The same results will happen. http://www.jaunted.com/story/2008/4/27/192143/868/travel/Eos+Airlines+Joins+the+Bankruptcy+Party
So put facts on flybricoe.com, not fantasy projections but hard true economic numbers! Privatize Briscoe with no Commercial Flights
Visit: www.bettergwinnett.org for facts, since both the OMG & Hartsfield studies back up what we have been saying since the beginning.

It appears that what Sabrina Smith has said is true, because no one from Fly Gwinnett Forward or Propeller has responded to dispute her. It is very disturbing to know that in this economy, any elected official would even consider obligating the taxpayers for a bailout of a company making such outrageous promises. Didn't Propeller have job fairs where they were giving false hope to desperate job seekers? That's pretty despicable to use people like that. If the project was really as good as Fly Gwinnett Forward promises, why would Propeller need to stoop to such underhanded tactics?

Citizens for Better Gwinnett has documentation from the feedom of information act that Steve Lemilin from Georgia Jet has been a “Stakeholder from 2008” in the Briscoe process through correspondence with the Chamber of Commerce and the County. . Mr. Lemilin is on Propeller INC. LLC as Registered Agent? Steve would you like to explain this? Steve either worked or works for Propeller but has been a stakeholder in the process.

This Briscoe privatization process has not been fair from the beginning!

Hi Steve Lemelin: I’m glad you responded since you are the registered agent for Propeller. I do see parallels between the federal stimulus plan and Propeller’s plan for Briscoe because both involve false promises. The federal stimulus plan promised to keep unemployment below 8%. Brett Smith has promised that his plan for Briscoe would create 20,000 to 30,000 jobs. Do you care to provide the methodology that Propeller uses to substantiate such a claim?

What about the FAA requirement that the taxpayers of Gwinnett County will be required to continue to operate the airport in the event of bankruptcy or insolvency by Propeller? When I pointed out that not one airport has been successfully privatized under the FAA program since 1997, Congressman Woodall’s chief of staff told me that I was looking at the wrong business model; that I should look at the Branson, MO airport. I followed his advice and found that it, too, was failing. Steve, how do you justify having the taxpayers of Gwinnett County locked into a bailout for Propeller in the event of their failure, particularly when this program has a track record of 0% success

Continuing my questions to Steve Lemelin: Please explain why FGF claims that those who are concerned about the noise associated with Propeller’s plan are just being hysterical, while at the same time FGF posts articles on their website about sound insulation programs that “could be implemented to minimize noise and reduce the number of people exposed to “UNACCEPTABLE NOISE LEVELS”. What do you consider to be an acceptable number of people to be exposed to unacceptable noise levels?

And speaking of insulation, please explain Brett Smith’s statement in his confidential presentation to Gwinnett County Board of Commission members that “Airports can be a political/bureaucratic hot potato” and privatizing Briscoe Field would “insulate elected officials from the drama of airport politics’. If this is such a good idea for Gwinnett County, I’m sure our elected officials would be racing to take credit for it instead of needing Brett to insulate them from responsibility.

Sabrina,

For the record, Propeller and Fly Gwinnett Forward have nothing to do with each other. Propeller does not fund Fly Gwinnett Forward nor are we affiliated with them. It is unfortunate that you resort to mudslinging at group that just wants the facts explored and a fair process followed - a clear contrast to your group which has no interest in recognizing anything which is contrary to what you want to believe.

There is a serious economic crisis throughout the United States and Propeller is attempting to introduce a proposal that has the potential to create jobs, economic stability, convenience, and a number of other benefits that can help so many people. I have always been taught that it is easier to criticize than to create and I have to say that I never really understood it until recently.

How could anyone be so vehemently opposed to seeing a non-binding proposal? This makes absolutely no sense and is contrary to normal logic. For the record, we have always been eager to discuss community concerns, listen to guidance, and answer questions; as a matter of fact Propeller has a clear record of seeking it out. We have demonstrated this time and again through countless presentations, thousands of hours engaged in conversation and even by reaching out to the opposition, all in an effort to come up with a plan that ultimately benefits the County. In fact, I have offered to outline our plans to you a number of times to no avail. Why?

It seems hypocritical for you to spend countless days reading 10,000 pages of documents and at the same time refuse to invest a few hours to discuss our proposal; I hope at the very least you enjoyed the reading. It is no wonder that little is accomplished in this Country anymore as so many people seem to prefer to complain rather than work together in the spirit of progress.

How can you, in good faith, disseminate information which has no factual basis whatsoever? At the very least, you could reference your material, something Propeller ALWAYS does. There is not one instance where Propeller has knowingly tried to deceive anyone; that’s not the way we do business.

Further, the information that we have distributed can in every single case be verified independently. I will go a step further and task you to prove me wrong. Since you seem to have no problem questioning everyone else I have a question for you. Since no proposal has been issued by anyone, how do you think you are serving Gwinnettians by writing with such authority on a subject with which you have no apparent educational or practical experience with? I am unable to think of a reason why you, or anyone else for that matter, would spend so much time and energy at this point, especially when this could increase your quality of life. I am sure your response will be to say “impossible”, of course that’s what a lot of people said before Chuck Yeager broke the sound barrier.

Sabrina, are you aware of the foreclosure rate in Gwinnett? Are you aware that the unemployment rate in metro Atlanta continues to hover in the double digits? May I ask, what suggestions you have that could put people back to work while at the same time turn around the economic situation that the County currently faces? Seriously, what would you propose to help the community put food on the table for their families?

Rather than waste my time on refuting your accusations (which are completely fictional) I will say that you would be doing everyone a favor, including yourself, by waiting until there is actually something to talk about. And finally, rather than write a separate response to Mr. Schneider (and run the risk of saying something completely unprofessional) www.flybriscoe.com stands on its own, and unlike the opposition’s site, everything is factual. Further, you have a tremendous amount of hutzpah attacking my management team who has put tens of thousands of people to work, run some of the most successful airlines in history, including RyanAir, and who continually attempt to improve the world in which we live.

I was urged not to respond to this posting but quite frankly enough is enough, I think most of the American public, along with the majority of Gwinnett’s citizens are just plain ole sick and tired of people who continually complain that their glass is half full; I know I certainly am.

Respectfully,
Brett Smith

Once again Rick your facts are wrong, I no longer work for Georgia Jet, I own my own company. Yes, I am the registered agent for Propeller Airports, full disclosure. I am not a stake holder, nor have I received any compensation for being the agent. I took the position as a favor to their General Counsel who is long time friend, who asked. Have you ever done a favor for a friend? Also, because I to am a concerned citizen of the county, I have been outspoken as a proponent.

Could you at least spell my name right, when you make accusations?

If Steve is a stakeholder that sure is news to me :-)

Thanks for clarifying that one for me, whew, I thought I would have to now offer him health insurance!

FlyBriscoe

10:17pm on Monday, November 7, 2011

I'm sorry I cannot resist, Sabrina, really after 10,000 pages of reading that's all you could come up with, toooo funny. The presentation was far from confidential btw, I have given that presentation to many people.

Brett: I guess it is easier to try to deflect people's attention instead of answering questions. You never have addressed the issue of the FAA requirement, the impact that your plan will have on those living in close proximity to the airport, or how you can claim to create 20,000 to 30,000 jobs.

Sabrina, I am glad you want to meet, please email me offline so we can arrange a meeting day and time, i look forward to addressing your concerns.

Regards,
Brett

Brett ,

Besides you giving advice on how to fill out the privitazation application to the County , we have Jann Moore on March 15 2010 8:31am Naming Steve Lemelin as well as Jimmy Norton from Fly Gwinnett Forward as a stake holder as well as the information below.

Sent: Monday, December 07,2009 5:14 PM To: Moore, Jann (County Admin) Cc: Nick Masino
Jann. Hi!
It wasgood to see you at the NCR event a few weeks back. I'm back from maternity leave and happy to be working again! Per my conversation with Nick, here is the list of our airport task force members that have been meeting for over a year. Airport Task Force: Lauren Salas, Chair John Gibbs, Aircraft Specialists Matt Smith, Airport Manager Steve Lemelin, Georgia Jet Jimmy Norton, Air Harbor PK Martin, Lawrenceville City Council Member David Sikes, Fox Building
Thanks,

Note Jimmy Norton very interesting!

I am not sure what this, who wrote it or what is being discussed, however, it makes no difference, take a deep breath and relax. Why are you so opposed to seeing an RFP! For crying out loud... Some advice, at least be smart about it and find a reason to oppose it after proposals are released, then at least and you know what you are against otherwise you come across looking like the Occupy Wall Street movement as not knowing what you are fighting against.

Sabrina, the short answer to your question on the County being on the hook is if the airport is privatized by a private company and that company were to go bankrupt, the process of bankruptcy will render the ownership stake of said company owners worthless, and any debt incurred would be renegotiated down to essentially nothing. At that point the County would step in essentially where the County was before the airport was sold or leased and the County would, in a worse-case scenario, be no worse off financially than before the privatization. It is a myth that the County would be obligated for a private company’s failure. If you believe otherwise please site who is responsible for providing you with your alleged facts so that we may contact them and right this misconception. Further, I am happy to give you additional insight when we meet and not at 11pm at night over a blog.

This is such a ridiculous stream of inflammatory antagonism. The purpose of the proposal process is to go into intricate detail about all of the issues.
To debate prior to a proposal is pointless. It is clear that nothing anyone says in support of privatization will be acceptable to those fervently opposed. Thus, the fact that this will create 20+ thousand jobs being based on the algorithm for commercial service at the capacity anticipated is irrelevant.

The fact that Briscoe is currently responsible for 730 jobs and over 83 million in annual economic impact indicates that a redeveloped airport with regional commercial service and 2 million annual passengers could easily bring the amount of jobs and economic impact that has been discussed.

I find it infuriating that anyone is debating or criticizing the idea of bringing jobs and financial benefit to my community. If half the proposed number of jobs and economic benefit occur we will all be far better off than we are now. With over 35,000 people actively seeking work in Gwinnett, bringing 200, 500, or 10,000 jobs would change the entire community.

The famed Hartsfied/FAA study was so very clear that redeveloping Briscoe would create ZERO additional noise impact on the community. It's odd that the study is debunked by the opposition when it doesn't support their agenda.
I for one, have planes over my house day and night and find such comments ridiculous. The trucks on Hwy 20 are more disruptive than the Lear jets.

In regard to the job numbers I would encourage you to look at the countless studies by other airports around the country which are available at: http://flybriscoe.com/economic.php, where you can look at comps. This is not rocket science and a well understood area. For clarification, I have never said 30,000 jobs and I am not sure where you are getting that from? I have always said and maintain that up to 20,000 jobs COULD be created, I would be crazy and so would anyone for that matter, to promise a specific number. However, not to acknowledge that a significant amount of jobs would be created is disingenuous and factually incorrect. Why would anyone criticize job creation? Further, we are looking at a huge investment in the community, that should be enough to at least hear us or anyone out for that matter, come on you have to recognize this.

Also, I don't understand the attitude on this at the very least I would think that people would at least say thank you for considering this and we appreciate the option.... Whether its right or wrong is so very premature at this juncture and goes back to my original comment of its always easier to criticize than to create. I mean for crying out loud how could you not want to explore possibilities. No one, at least we are not looking for a contract, we are just advocating that you hear us out.

Sabrina, business is very similar to a marriage, if an arrangement doesn't work for both parties it doesn't work at all. Our goal, should we be granted the opportunity, is to transform Briscoe into a facility that everyone (and I mean everyone, you included :-) ) can be proud of, and that other regions envy. With this in mind, I hope that people would have an open mind and at the very least allow us to present our plan to the public. Ask yourself this, what do you really have to loose by listening? Certainly a lot more by not....

Brett Smith your ruthless campaign to take over Briscoe Field for commerical aviation for your personal gain at the expense of the citizens in Gwinnett County. Your promise of jobs for desperate people. (Even Clark Howard thought that was unethical.) Your ignoring facts regarding the success of this type program for other airports. All this leads us to know we have met the enemy and it is Propeller Investments. Am I personally attacking you? You darn right I am. Your air of total distain for all who take exception to your campaign and your "I know what's good for you" attitude should guarantee that our county leaders make sure you never operate a company in this county.

Brett/FlyBriscoe wrote:

"Also, I don't understand the attitude on this at the very least I would think that people would at least say thank you for considering this and we appreciate the option..."

Wow are you feeling ok? Why would I appreciate a robber trying to steal from me when that is not what I want....

Again....It appears that you are so one way that you cannot see anything but dollars an cents.

For all the people that have commented about the negative discussions before a proposal has even been introduced and why can't we just wait until the proposal has been released and have an open mind.............
We have seen our County Commissioners in action. We have been through the bad land deals, corruption, grand jury investigations, etc. We already know how they operate and how they think. We know the players that have been behind the deal from the beginning - AND WE DON'T TRUST THEM!!!!
So, you can be infuriated. You can think our comments are ridiculous. You can claim that we need to be more informed. You can say that we are being hypocritical. That's fine.
But the old saying goes.....fool me once shame on you - fool me twice shame on me. I, for one, am tired of being fooled.

Privatize, with an ironclad clause that prohibits commercial flights. Delta airlines has said commercialization would decrease their profitability even more and implied they think it a poor economic decision for the airlines; the homeowners in the area know it is a poor economic decision for their property values, thus themselves; and, the businesses in the area that will be adversely affected by traffic,amongst other issues you claim are "non issues", are certain there is nothing in it for them. Obviously, for you to continue the discussion in such a hostile environment, there is something really "sweet" in it for you and yours. Why don't you take your plans to a place where all the people are as intelligent as you and all recognize the brilliance of your proposal? How about a nice country where they like to herd sheep.....just an idea. And wen you go, I hear Mike Boudreauxs

Brett: Instead of trying to meet me or contact Greg, why don't you schedule a meeting/townhall/open forum? There are thousands of people in Gwinnett, particularly in the Lawrencville and Dacula area, who are very angry and worried about your proposal. I know you want community support for your plan and say that 85% of the people in Gwinnett already support it. If that is true, it should be pretty easy to explain the true benefits of your plan to the remaining 15%. When and where are you willing to meet with the people of Lawrenceville and Dacula who want more information? It would definitley be to your benefit to help everyone understand what you say are the misconceptions about the airport. I will look forward to attending this meeting.

(continued from above)
And if you want to go, I hear Mike Boudreaux is "game".

Lets do both! We will work on setting this up Sabrina. I have been wanting to do this for quite some time. Contrary to the sentiment on here I am not some big bad monster that wants to benefit at the expense of others.

Hi Brett: That's a great idea. The members of Gwinnett Citizens for Responsible Government will help in any way possible. I look forward to it.

Fly Briscoe wrote...

"Contrary to the sentiment on here I am not some big bad monster that wants to benefit at the expense of others."

I just find that hard to believe.

Wanting to drop a commercial airport where it never existed after the area has been built up and taxpayers moved so that business can expand sounds pretty darn monsterous to me.

Especially when soooo many people are against it.

I agree with Sabrina.... lets have an air it out session for all seeing how 85% are for this boondoggle....you should be ok with presenting your side of the story.

Although...I could have sworn we did something like this at 12stone and not to many people out of the hundreds there supported your group.

Where were your 85%ers at that time?

Sabrina,

In response to the questions posed. I am not part of the management team at Propeller Investments, nor was I consulted for my opinion as to how many jobs I thought the project might generate. I would speculate that the large number proposed by Propeller would encompass the entire spectrum. If one were to consider the construction jobs of the capital improvements, to the service and support firms, and other ancillary businesses that would surely either grow, or be started as a result of the project. The number of jobs would certainly be significant.

To the point of the County being on the hook, should the prospective company fail? The County already is on the hook for the continued operations of the airport, by virtue of the fact that we have received federal funds via the AIP program. The airport must remain an airport, or we would have to repay the estimated 30 million dollars. We continue to apply for, and receive these funds frequently digging the hole even deeper. Should that source of funding dry up, it will result in an increased burden on the taxpayers of the county just for continued operations of the airport. If the prospective company were to fail, the county and its residents will have benefitted from the capital improvements which that company had invested. Keep in mind that neither the County, nor the taxpayers would be responsible for the debt incurred by that private company. Under current leases with the county for airport property, the county retains the rights to the lease hold improvements, upon termination of the lease.

My knowledge of the Branson, MO. airport is that it was as Brett stated, a Greenfield, and completely privately funded. It was a speculative endeavor, predicated on the tourism trade of the area. Had the economy not tanked, it would not be in the trouble it is in, of course none of us would. Comparing it to Briscoe is not feasible as they are completely different animals. There are nowhere close to the number of people in the incatchment area in Branson, as there are in Gwinnett and surrounding counties. The Branson project was a very speculative move, and a credit to the times in which it was conceived. I will say that I have been there many times, and it is a very nice airport.

As to the question of the Noise statements made by Fly Gwinnet Forward, you should direct them to Jimmy Norton, Paula Hastings, or Mike Royal. At this time I have no affiliation to FGF, other than they are friends, and might I add also concerned citizens of the county. I personally live within 5 miles of the airport, knew it was there when I purchased my home, and understood the implications. I may be biased, being a pilot but I like the sound of airplanes. Being more practical though, I will admit that the noise impact posed by scheduled service could be responsibly mitigated.

I like the “political hot potato” statement, misdirected as it is. Perhaps, that question should be posed to Charlotte? As I seem to recall, they had a vote back in May to move forward with the RFP process, after the much vaulted public meeting at 12 Stone. We live in a representative republic, not a democracy. We elected representatives to vote for their constituent’s wishes, the vote was cast, albeit divided. It appears that either staff elected on their own to disregard the mandate of the Commissioners, or was directed to do so? I don’t know, nor am I making any accusations. It just appears that we are in the process of a “do over”.

To address Rick’s concerns, I will add that I was indeed a member of the Airport Task Force, I believe the intent of Jann Moores stakeholder label, was that we were either operating, or owned businesses that were located on the airport. We created it with the assistance of the Partnership Gwinnett; the group was working with the chamber to stimulate economic activity in response to the economic downturn. You might also notice that PK Martin was on the task force, as we wanted the input of the Lawrenceville City council. At no time were the activities of the task force involved in the Privatization efforts of Propeller, or the county. We were simply business concerns that were seeking assistance from each other, and the chamber of commerce to promote Briscoe field, as an economic catalyst. The task force was not engaged in anything nefarious, unless you’re against job creation, and economic activity.

With regards to the statement that Privatization has not worked anywhere else, I would pose to the Nay Sayers that we could set the example for the rest of the country to follow. It is mind boggling to me that we shouldn’t at least see some formal proposals, before we make an up or down decision. We have already paid IMG $190,000. If we stop now, we will have wasted that, and possibly a unique opportunity to do something incredible.

To wrap this up, I realize that some of you are adamantly opposed, regardless of what is said you will not change your minds. Likewise a large number are in favor, and we will not change our minds. I don’t mind civil debate, I’ll always reply with an honest response. We are each entitled to our own opinions, let’s just keep it civil. We can disagree ideologically, but the virulent personal sniping is pointless.

Greg,

Unfortunately, when people are for something they don't come out with pitch forks yelling and screaming. You may find it hard to believe or would prefer that I was a big bad monster but hence I am just someone trying to make positive change. If the airport were not there I it would be a different story altogether.

If you follow the theory / logic that airports destroy property values then would it not be true that this has already occurred? If so then wouldn't a significant investment raise values of what has already supposedly has been hit? If we are creative about this isn't it possible to develop a scenario which could work well for everyone and turn the airport into something that is beautiful?

I am extremely frustrated by one simple fact..that Propeller or FGF fails to address time and time again. I am a logical person, I make difficult decisions every day. I think most of the people who are against commercialization are very smart people, and can see risk/benefit common sense. What bothers me is that we can all argue about if commercialization will create jobs or even pay for itself, but I don’t even need to get that far to have a problem with this plan. To me, and I think most homeowners in the area, the point that I can’t pass, that I can’t seem to get addressed, is the COST to people like myself, the homeowners in Dacula, especially those under the approach to the landing aircraft. It’ s like someone telling me how all the coal under a mountain that happens to be on my property will make the county rich…as long as I am willing to blow the top off that mountain, and have coal trucks driving up and down my road 24/7. What if I like my view currently? What if I am not OK with coal trucks, their noise, the risk to my children, etc? Should I not be heard just because people elsewhere in the county can make money?

If this idea is so perfect, so sure to create jobs and revenue, then as the county, put your money where your mouth is, and PAY US for the decreased value, decreased enjoyment, decreased use of our homes due to this airport plan. Unless they are willing to do that, they are not serious, and all they want to do is rob from one person, to give to a bunch of other people. Their other arguments fall on deaf ears, because they have proven to me that they simply do not care about the impact on the local region. Instead of trying to gain our support, they get the rest of the county to gang up on us. They have specific commissioners speak poorly to us in meetings, talk down to us, degrade us for our concerns, etc. NOT ONE OUNCE of care have been spent trying to be empathetic or to resolve these issues with those who will be effected.
They seem shocked that we do not trust them, and do not believe that they have our best interest at heart. To the people who ask this, have you not seen what the Gwinnett Commissioners have done in our name over the past several years? The open and up front disregard for what is legal, what is fair, what is right, all for their own personal enrichment, or individual power gain.

So to the folks at Fly Gwinnett Forward, and for Propeller…have you even tried to walk a mile in our shoes? There is ZERO proof that this will not hurt our home values. So how do you feel about that? Go on the record! Have you seen how Mike Beaudreau treated the people he represents at numerous meetings and information sessions? Did you take a stand against how he treated us for our concerns, or did you just support him because he tends to agree with your desire to move this plan along. Right is right, wrong is wrong, and as long as you have people who speak for the minority, and against the majority of home owners in this region, you will continue to meet fierce resistance. We will not have this crammed down our throats just because you want this really bad, and you believe fully that it will create jobs, or personal gain for those you represent or are currently employed.

And by the way..I travel for a living, meeting with doctors, hospitals, etc. I've been to a majority of these areas around airports being used as examples. I have not seen one such area that was deemed desirable, or sought after. The Dacula area offers a unique quality of life, one that we couldn't get in other parts of Gwinnett, which is why we moved here. We get more for our home dollars, more property, a different community feel, etc. I've lived in, and supported this community now for about 10 years, and I am not eager to see what so many people value diminished based on a strategy that has proven false in several other areas. The idea that this will create jobs is in fact disputable, and we can agree or disagree, but every day evidence easily seen by the laws of supply and demand shows us that homes around commercial airports are greatly reduced in value, desirabilty, etc.

Fly
You REALLY have no idea or concern just how much hostility is out in the county about BEING hoodwinked. The job application fiasco was just icing on the cake.

Please just respond to the pointed questions of Sabrina right in this posting – no additional meetings are required or sought until these facts are addressed point by point and independent research can be completed. THEN a public meeting of real substance could be held. Otherwise we are attempting to nail Jell-O to a wall.

OR! Brett could take his toys & simply go somewhere else. If you do PLEASE take Mike with you. You, are not wanted, needed, or welcome, by a LOT OF PEOPLE. (honest & hard working people with enough common sense to see right through you Brett Smith)

Good first meeting. This group seemed to be very dedicated to doing the job asked of them and providing the BOC recommendations based on their research. I plan on attending all the meetings I can to watch the process. Thanks to all on the committee for dedicating their time, and it will be a lot of their time, to this vital issue.

I was just going to ask if anyone attended the first meeting. Here's what happened: http://patch.com/A-n7rl. I'd love to hear what those of you who attended thought about it.

Has Propeller set the date for the town hall meeting? Does anyone know where it be held? Will all of the details be posted here on the Patch?

Bruce PLEASE tell us your being cynical - (can't tell from your post) Patch is currently best source of info.

Thanks

Has the date been set for Brett Smith's Town Hall meeting? Does anyone know when and where it will be held?

Vanzetta: Will you post the information on the Propeller Town Hall Meeting on the Patch? Do you know the date/location, etc.?

Has Brett Smith given us a time and place for his town hall meeting? I might have missed this posting somewhere.

Bev & others, I was wondering the same thing about the town hall meeting? If anyone gets the time and dates please be sure to let us know.

I would also like to know when the town hall meeting will be held
Duane Huff
duanehuff@yahoo.com

Getting to the facts is what everyone desires. But, it is not necessary to solicit proposals via the RFP process for the facts to be made known. The RFP is a response to a set of criteria which sets forth the basis for the submittals. What is the basis upon which the County has established their criteria? These are the facts! A lot of information is readily available from which we can draw conclusions about what criteria to use for an RFP. Top among the resources are many FAA reports about the Privatization Process (including the history of the program), the recent Atlanta Hartsfield study, prior experiences at Mid-America Airport (near O'Fallon, Illinois), Branson, MO, and Stewart International Airport in New York. Bottom line, none have been successful and all were expensive. Why does the County want to risk taxpayer funds when the evidence clearly depicts the huge risk associated with trying to create a privately operated commercial passenger service airport? Is it the verbal promise of "thousands" of jobs? Check out John Wayne Airport in Orange County California. Built on slightly more than 500 acres, it has 20,000 take-off/landings per month (combined total between general aviation and commercial passenger flights), twenty commercial gates, and the airport has a total of 179 full time permanent employees as of 2009!

Like so many others, I too would like to know when/where the Townhall meeting will be so we can obtain FACTUAL information and not speculative!

To all of you who have emailed me, asking for the date of Brett Smith’s Town Hall meeting, I don’t know it yet. I apologize to those who have not received a response from me, but I have been out of town and have not had time to answer all of your emails. Brett posted this, when I suggested that he schedule a meeting/town hall/ open forum for those with concerns about his proposal for Briscoe:

“FlyBriscoe
11:38am on Tuesday, November 8, 2011
Lets do both! We will work on setting this up Sabrina. I have been wanting to do this for quite some time. Contrary to the sentiment on here I am not some big bad monster that wants to benefit at the expense of others.”

Contrary to what many of you have said in your emails, I believe that Brett was being sincere when he said he wanted to do this. He has nothing to lose, and everything to gain by publicly discussing his vision for Briscoe Field. I know he travels and maintains a busy schedule, so it may be that he simply has not had time to schedule it yet.

I will send him an email, asking for details, and offering the assistance of members of Gwinnett Citizens for Responsible Government, if would like for us to participate. If he plans to do it without our participation, that is perfectly acceptable, and we will look forward to attending the meeting.

With his permission, I will post his response here so that all of you may read it.

So much mudslinging and misinformation! I am opposed to commercialization of Briscoe, but believe Brett Smith to be a man of integrity. I have met with him,spoken with him at length by phone and had several online talks with him. He sincerely believes his plan would benefit not just Propeller but Gwinnett County and its citizens as well.

You may disagree with his idea but it is incorrect to label Brett Smith as ruthless or "only interested in profits." He's a good man and one that I would consider a friend. After our meeting, he knows I am opposed to commercialization and he knows why. That doesn't mean we are enemies....only that we have different opinions on this issue. It would be helpful if all parties in this discussion exercised a bit of civility and empathy.

"He sincerely believes his plan would benefit not just Propeller but Gwinnett County and its citizens as well."

Why solicit resumes for a project that doesn't exist yet and you have no standing to do so in anything resembling Good Faith? Is this a reflection of a man of integrity? Actions like this speak far louder than words in a personal conversation - too bad he's not on record as condemning the incident of offering "vaporware" jobs to folks in SOUTH Atlanta job fares. People make mistakes, those with integrity admit them publicly and then move on to correction, something some of the BOC members should consider as well...