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There are many businesses and developments that are not compatible with an airport. Residential development is a prime example of an incompatible use. The most serious threat to airports is encroachment of residential property around it. People don't like airplanes flying over their homes. The closer they are to an airport, the noisier it becomes. The noisier it is, the more complaints are lodged. The more complaints, the more likely that an airport will reduce operations, eliminate commercial service, or (worst case) close. The development of the ECAP (Enterprise Charlotte Airport Park) was an important step in limiting the problem of encroachment of residential property at the Airport.
The Airport seeks compatible businesses. Aviation related businesses such as Air Trek Ambulance Service and Arcadia Aerospace, manufacturing facilities such as Pulsafeeder, distribution sites such as Cheney Brothers, and entertanment venues such as the Punta Gorda Speedway are some examples of business types that are compatible with an airport. Staff and commission members continually seek out these and similar kinds of businesses to locate in the Airport and Commerce Park.
It is quite important that the commissioners, personally, are not developers since the potential for conflict of interest is great. Questions would arise if a developer who sits on the board is personally involved in getting his or her contacts established at the airport and then being responsible for overseeing their leases and dealings at the airport. The appearance of impropriety is sometimes as damaging as any actual problem that might arise or exist.
The airport works together with the County Economic Development Department to identify and attract new businesses to the airport area. Sometimes, the airport is a perfect fit. Sometimes, a business is better suited elsewhere in the county. Regardless of a businesses eventual location, the airport sees each potential development as a benefit to the county.