Editor,

How about the people who object to the noise from the jets using the Outlying Field south of Coupeville take the initiative to alleviate the situation.

Instead of making taxpayers spend several million dollars to move the Growlers to Lemoore Naval Air Station (in California), how about Ken Pickard and the others who object to the noise form a nonprofit organization like the Nature Conservatory. This organization could apply for a $300 or $400 grant from a charity like the Gates Foundation to buy property from those in the APZ who want to move to a more noise-friendly area.

Their foundation could auction off the recycle rights. After everything of reuse was removed, they could let the structure that remains be used for firefighting training or police SWAT training.

The property could be returned to its former natural state or other appropriate use.

Carl Smith

Oak Harbor