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Residents voice noise and lead concerns at Clow International Airport; airport manager cites FAA grant limits

Mayor and Board of Trustees of the Village of Bolingbrook · April 1, 2026

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Summary

At the Oct. 14 Bolingbrook meeting residents complained about increased noise and possible airborne lead from Clow International Airport flight schools; airport General Manager Joe DePaulo said lead levels are 'miniscule' and that FAA grant assurances limit the Village's ability to bar flight schools, noting the FAA could sue if assurances are violated.

Several Bolingbrook residents raised concerns about aircraft noise and potential airborne lead at Clow International Airport during the Oct. 14 meeting, and the airport’s general manager responded that local options are constrained by federal grant terms.

Residents Tony Gainstord, Leisey Streitelmeier and Howie Hughes told the board they are unhappy about increased noise and aircraft activity at Clow International Airport; Streitelmeier also called for flight schools at the airport to be terminated, and commenters cited concern about airborne lead. Debbie Watson urged civility in community dialogue and thanked others for respectful participation.

Joe DePaulo, general manager of Clow International Airport, responded that there is a "miniscule" amount of lead in the air surrounding the airport and said that in more than 20 years he is not aware of any reports of negative health effects attributable to the airport. DePaulo said aircraft activity has increased but that many newer aircraft have quieter engines. He explained that flight patterns and altitudes are set by the Federal Aviation Administration and influenced by weather and exam requirements, and that the airport has received FAA grant money since 2005. "Grant assurances dictate that the Village of Bolingbrook cannot disallow the flight schools at the airport," DePaulo said, adding, "The FAA could sue the Village if those grant assurances are not followed." He also said the airport is working with flight schools to encourage relocation and that local flight schools can be stepping-stones to professional careers.

Mayor Mary S. Alexander-Basta said village staff are researching FAA grant requirements and will provide more information as they determine what is and is not allowed. The minutes record no board action on the airport item during this meeting; the discussion was recorded as public comment and staff response.