SOUTH BURLINGTON, Vt. -
Hundreds of people turned out for the public discussion on F-35A jets possibly being based in Burlington. The auditorium inside South Burlington High School was packed Monday night.
"I think it's more of a human rights issue," said a member of the audience.
People came here to voice their opinion about Burlington being considered as a possible home to the F-35A jets.
"F-35A is all wrong for a civilian neighborhood," said Joe Randazzo, who is against the jets coming to Burlington.
One of the main issues folks have here is the noise; in fact they were handing out packets saying say no to deaf-35.
"It will be twice as loud as the F-16 and to have this flying in and out of civilian areas is just unacceptable," said Randazzo.
Rod Williams lives right near the airport, "When the F-16s take off we can see the after burners from our house, it is loud and it takes about 30 seconds and it's gone."
The Vermont Air National Guard says if the city is chosen, Burlington would receive an economic boost.
"Maintaining the relevancy of this air national guard absolutely we become part of the community and will be remain part of that community for decades to come," said Brigadier General Steve Cray, with the Vermont Air National Guard.
There are six total cities in the running, but Burlington is considered a preferred location.
Williams says he supports the basing of the jets, "They are here to protect our country. If you don't like the noise, don't move by the airport."
If chosen, the first delivery of the up to 24 jets could be as early as 2015. The selection process is still in the beginning stages. The air force is expected to have a decision by the end of the year.
