A debate held at Saint Michael's college featuring "experts" on both sides of the F-35 issue, square off Wednesday night. In less than 2 months the United States Air Force will decide whether or not its F-35 planes will call the Burlington Airport home. The issue is very divisive, which is why so many showed up to see both sides go head to head.
"Seeing the two sides going up should be a good conversation to have," said Thomas Grace, who opposes the fighter jets coming to Burlington.
Rosanne Greco with the ‘Stop F-35' group spoke at the debate and came prepared with data opposing the jets, "Areas exposed to DNL above 65 decibels are generally not considered suitable for residential use."
But when it comes down to the facts, it's hard for the average Joe to know who has the correct information.
"A lot of what's been said, a lot of what you heard, the negative is simply not true," said supporter Tom Torti.
Which begs the question, if the United States Air Force will make the ultimate decision in the end, what is the point of holding debates and forums such as this?
Thomas Grace, a ‘Stop F-35' supporter says it puts on public pressure, "There are people of power who can influence the decision and does the air force really want to put a base in and divide a community?"
The decision on where the F-35 jets will be placed is expected to be determined in December.
