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Commission sets on‑site drone demonstration; residents question enforcement and safety
Summary
After a lengthy discussion and public comments, the commission asked staff to schedule an on‑site demonstration so neighbors can assess noise and operations; residents pressed for enforceable restrictions and alternate sites farther from downtown.
The planning commission agreed to request an on‑site demonstration so commissioners and neighbors can evaluate drone operations firsthand before any rezoning or special‑use permit is advanced. Staff said demonstrations could include multiple drones and be held at times convenient for neighbors, and that certified Part 107 operators with property‑owner permission could perform the flights.
Residents said demonstration alone will not resolve enforcement concerns. Property owner Reggie Cogdell worried about safety and asked whether the county had evaluated other, more remote county parcels. "If this is a feasible use…try a different area that's safer," Cogdell said. Staff reiterated that the county would include conditions in a special‑use permit and that contractors would be required to provide licenses, insurance and on‑site supervision; staff also said contracts would enable the county to revoke access if operators violated conditions.
