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Milton council weighs accepting Navy TH‑57C helicopter as static display and possible transfer of longtime T‑28 plane
Summary
Council discussed accepting a decommissioned TH‑57C helicopter from NAS Whiting Field as a static display and whether to let the city’s long-standing T‑28 airplane be transferred to Foley; staff recommended accepting the helicopter and seeking engineering authorization for pedestal work while deferring final placement until community input is gathered.
Milton — The City of Milton discussed accepting a decommissioned TH‑57C helicopter from NAS Whiting Field and the Naval Aviation Museum as a static display and weighed a proposal to transfer the city’s long-standing T‑28 airplane to Foley.
City Manager Ed Spears briefed council on the offer, saying Jones South Development’s involvement would not affect this item, and staff recommended accepting the helicopter and pursuing engineering to determine pedestal and foundation needs. Randy Roy, the invited speaker from NAS Whiting Field, described the helicopter as “the best representation of NAS Whiting Field” and framed it as a historically appropriate display for the city.
Council members noted community attachment to the T‑28, which has been on public display for decades, and asked for wider public input before deciding whether to transfer that aircraft. One council member said keeping the helicopter but delaying any move of the T‑28 would respect locals who have long regarded the plane as a neighborhood landmark.
Staff discussed costs and next steps: the Naval Aviation Museum has offered to prep and paint the TH‑57C, and BDI (a local firm) estimated pedestal engineering and installation at roughly $80,000; staff recommended authorization of up to $50,000 for site-specific engineering and design work. Joe (city staff) said the airplane’s annual upkeep had been “just under $4,000” in recent years, but pedestal and mounting work would require formal engineering sign‑off by the museum.
No final votes were taken. Council directed staff to keep the helicopter acceptance on the consent agenda for the upcoming council meeting while deferring a final decision about transferring the T‑28 pending additional community input and a Foley response. If Foley proceeds and pays transport and restoration costs, staff said the transfer could be executed at Foley’s expense; if Foley declines, Milton would need to identify an alternate home or fund pedestal work to keep both displays.
The council left the item on the agenda for further discussion at the regular meeting and asked staff to return with engineering details and community‑engagement options.
