Peoria residents voice strong opposition to proposed airpark plans

During a recent government meeting, concerns were raised regarding Peoria's exploration of a potential airpark, with many community members expressing their displeasure. The discussion highlighted four main topics, with the first two to be elaborated on in subsequent presentations. Notably, the city has decided to maintain the existing land use threshold, which was initially proposed to change from 80 to 640 acres. Following community feedback, this change was removed from the proposal as of April 25.

The meeting also addressed the role of voters in the general plan amendments. While community members suggested that all major amendments should be subject to voter approval, it was clarified that state law assigns the city council the responsibility for deciding on the general plan and its amendments. Voter involvement is limited to resetting the expiration date of the general plan, rather than voting on its content.

Additionally, the proposed amendments have faced opposition due to concerns that they would facilitate the establishment of the airpark. However, officials emphasized that the airpark exploration is an independent process, separate from the general plan amendments. This exploration involves multiple studies and outreach efforts, and its timeline is distinct from the amendments currently under consideration. The officials reassured that the ongoing discussions about the airpark would continue regardless of the outcome of the general plan amendments.