Donald Trump, the realignment of Taxiway Lima, and the proposed construction of two new 35,000 square foot hangars were just some of the topics discussed at the Republic Airport Commission meeting held on Monday, Oct. 17. The meeting, which took place at Republic Airport's main terminal, was open to the public and attracted approximately 40 attendees.

RAC Chairman Frank Nocerino began the proceedings by addressing the crowd and reiterating the Commission's stance that there is "no desire to move the airport to Stage III." Nocerino's statement was intended to quell the fears of local residents who oppose this notion. Republic Airport currently is currently sized to accept at Category 2, although Category 3 aircraft are permitted by law to land at Republic Airport.

"Stage III engines are the quietest engines currently placed on corporate jets and you will find them on Category 2 and Category 3 aircraft," Republic Airport Spokesperson Gary Lewi later told the Farmingdale Observer. "Stage II engines are the vast majority of jet engines currently in use and, again, you may find them on Category 2 and Category 3 aircraft."

Nocerino also noted that a committee comprised of both civic and airport personnel would be formed to make decisions regarding all future airport projects and changes.

One of the main points of contention during the night revolved around Donald Trump's jet, which drew the ire of local residents when it streaked low over the neighborhoods bordering the airport. The noise and low altitude, coupled with the fact that the jet made several passes, contributed to a spike in complaints, the RAC said. The jet had been given clearance by the control tower to fly lower than normal and make the passes in order get shots for Trump's NBC television show, The Apprentice. While Nocerino and the RAC continuously stated that the responsibility to prosecute falls on the FAA, concerned citizens were not deterred in venting their frustration at the incident several times during the meeting. Both the RAC and representatives of companies operating out of Republic Airport expressed their outrage at the incident and were adamant about not letting something like it happen again.

Also discussed at the meeting was the possibility of widening one of the taxiways located at the southeast corner of the airport. Billed as the Realignment of Taxiway Lima, the proposal entailed widening the taxiway by several feet on each side and centering it between the hangars. The reason given for the project was that the added girth of the taxiway would make it much easier for planes to enter the hangars under their own power rather than being repositioned and towed in by support vehicles as is currently done. Residents in attendance questioned the necessity of such a proposal and expressed fears that the project would make it easier for the airport to start catering to more category III aircraft. The RAC also discussed the proposed construction of two new 35,000 square foot hangars. This proposal also raised the concern of citizens and Nocerino was quick to point out that all proposed projects were not even in their infancy and that the possibility of their construction was merely in discussion.

In addition, the RAC also mentioned the possible construction of noise barriers along the Route 110 corridor. The RAC is currently negotiating the details of the project and hopes to seek funding for the endeavor through Assemblyman Charles Fuscillo. The next Republic Airport Commission meeting is scheduled for Dec. 13 at 7 p.m. at Republic Airport on Route 110 in East Farmingdale. Further information can be obtained by contacting the airport at 631-752-7707 or by visiting www.republicairport.net.