Livermore Airport commission highlights development plans as residents press for PFAS findings and noise mitigation

Darren Bishop, chair of the Livermore Airport Commission, updated the City Council on the commission’s advisory role, ongoing projects and goals including tenant hangar construction, a forthcoming RFP for development, a monthly noise‑reporting website and interest in clean and quiet aviation technologies.

Why it matters: Commissioners emphasized the airport’s role in flight training, medical flights, law enforcement and support for local STEM organizations. Bishop said the commission will continue advising council and planning staff on development inside the airport protection area and on airport operations.

Residents pressing environmental and noise concerns: Multiple residents used the public comment period to request greater transparency and action. Donna Kaban asked whether the Airport Commission had received a GeoSyntec report that she said found elevated PFAS (per‑ and polyfluoroalkyl substances) in soil and shallow groundwater at Livermore Airport, asked that the report be presented publicly and questioned whether the findings would affect South Hangar S‑1 development. Kaban asked the commission or city to agendize the report; the request went unanswered in the meeting record and remains unresolved.

Leaded fuel and alternatives: Airport manager Benny Stewart briefed the council on unleaded aviation fuel sales: "In 2024, we had sold about 1,100 gallons of 94. This year, we are actually surpassing 4,000 gallons," he said, noting sales have increased since July. Commissioners and staff discussed barriers to wider adoption — supplemental type certificates (STCs) and infrastructure — and expected new 100‑octane unleaded products to reach the airport soon.

Noise and oversight: Residents urged stronger mitigation for jet noise and airborne lead exposure. Speaker Shirley Lewandowski said FAA grant conditions limit local authority but argued cities have tools to protect public health; she advocated for GAMI 100UL as a preferred unleaded option. Bishop reiterated the commission’s promotion of quieter flying and said many operations are outside local jurisdiction once aircraft are in the national airspace, while encouraging pilots to follow voluntary noise‑abatement practices.

Next steps and follow‑ups: Council members asked staff to expedite any feasible steps and to keep the public informed. The meeting did not include a formal action on PFAS disclosure or new airport rules; those requests were raised for future agenda consideration.