City of Westminster

The city of Westminster is divided by two counties: Adams county, which makes up the larger eastern side of the city while a smaller portion to the west is in Jefferson county. A review of the records suggests that the city has been willing to sacrifice the health and well-being of its Jefferson county residents to become an eager partner in Jefferson County’s ambitious plans for the growth of Rocky Mountain Metro Airport (RMMA, formerly known as Jefferson County airport).

Jefferson County set the standard in 1979 when it permitted development of a residential area just east of the airport despite objections from the FAA. The FAA objected to development of residential areas in the approach and departure zones, citing danger and excessive noise from airplanes flying overhead. In fact, the FAA had voiced the same concerns when the area was zoned for residential development 10 years earlier. In making this decision, Jeffco Commissioners overrode its own planning commission which had unanimously recommended denial of the plat because of the anticipated noise problem They had been following the FAA’s advice that noise levels could rise to 90 decibels, far exceeding the 55 decibel limit which constitutes a public nuisance. Although developers agreed to use soundproofing features in the construction of the homes, no such provisions were ever mandated for builders.

As Westminster grew and annexed previously unincorporated areas of Jefferson County, they created an alliance with Jefferson County in fulfilling its plan for growth of the airport. The 2006 Northeast Comprehensive Development Plan lists the following item as an Intent or purpose of the plan:

Protect the economic viability of the Jefferson County Airport by allowing development within the Jefferson County Airport Critical Zone that is compatible with the function of this Critical Zone.

Jefferson County returned the favor by favoring flight paths that concentrated operations in certain areas of Westminster to minimize the inevitable (and politically negative) reactions from the Westminster citizens. Westminster enjoys a position on the powerful Airport Advisory Board (AAB) to ensure that RMMA plays a part in the city’s plan for its own economic development. Stephanie Troller, a member of Westminster’s Economic Development Office, is one of eight AAB members. The AAB’s stated mission is to serve as the primary advisor and advocate for the airport in its plan for growth and development. There is no mention of public welfare in the AAB’s purpose or duties.

Make Your Voice Heard!

Westminster City Council members have listened to complaints from their citizens about RMMA for many years, both in public and private meetings. They offer sympathy but little else. Their intent on the Community Noise Roundtable is clear. They perceive that, with fewer citizens to appease than Boulder County and other affected areas, they don’t have to disrupt their relationship with Jefferson County to deal with the significant negative impacts of RMMA (noise, air and LEAD pollution) on their own constituents. Participate in public comments during the Roundtable and Airport Advisory Board meetings. Let them know just exactly how these flight operations are affecting you. Contact your local representatives, listed above, and tell them the same.