Issues associated with the impact of Luke Air Force Base serving as a training base for F-35 fighter jets will be explored during a public forum presented by El Mirage Tuesday.
The Glendale base, the largest fighter wing and only active-duty F-16 training base in the world, is competing with other bases as the future training site for pilots of F-35s, the next generation of fighter jets designed to replace the F-16.
Former Congressman Matt Salmon, who is a consultant for El Mirage, will moderate the forum at 7 p.m. Tuesday in Mountain View Recreation Center, 9749 N. 107th Ave., Sun City.
A panel of experts has been asked to discuss sound impacts, development impacts, quality of life, municipal sustainability and options for a mission for Luke Air Force Base, according to event organizers.
“This is a critical time for El Mirage, the West Valley and the state of Arizona,” said El Mirage Mayor Michele Kern. “As we enter the Environmental Impact Study phase of the military’s site-selection process, the key considerations will be determined. For our residents, quality of life and economic vitality is paramount. We want to hear from our residents and all sides of the issue so that we can be as informed as possible entering the scoping process.”
Scoping is the first step in the EIS process in which the military determines the specific criteria the site will be evaluated within, according to El Mirage officials. Noise, encroachment, airfield and flight modifications, weather and proximity to the Barry Goldwater range could all be factors, among others. Cities will lobby for certain issues to be included within the scope.
El Mirage has been holding off support of the new jet locating at Luke until the noise level emanating from the jet can be assessed.
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