Freedom's sound is speaking up

Last week the Anacortes American highlighted the Navy’s decision to end negotiations regarding their planned Growler Jet expansion on Whidbey Island.

On Sunday an Everett Herald editorial declared the need for the Navy to return to discussions with key stakeholders, and to “act as a good neighbor to the communities that are its hosts”.

The current noise impact is already severe but plans to increase training exercises by nearly 400 percent and the number of jets by 39 percent will have devastating results in surrounding communities.

During Congressman Rick Larsen’s public gathering in Anacortes this past week I was encouraged to hear multiple questions and audience concerns regarding jet noise levels in our area and what can be done about the planned expansion by the Navy.

Unfortunately, the proposed mitigation mainly involves reinforcing and soundproofing historic buildings in Central Whidbey and does nothing to address the factors that will create even more damaging noise throughout the region. Health of humans and wildlife are not remotely addressed in the Navy’s plan for mitigation.

In the basement of La Conner’s United Methodist Church nearly 100 people turned out for a recent screening of “Plane Truths,” a documentary detailing multiple concerns regarding the Navy’s expansion plan to site all of its Growler jets locally. I found the film to be enlightening, and would recommend watching it online with friends, family and concerned neighbors.

If you wish to act please spend a few minutes contacting your federal elected officials (Senators Patty Murray and Maria Cantwell, and Congressman Rick Larsen) to let them know your concerns.

The sound of freedom is when you exercise your first amendment rights. Don’t let your voice be drowned out by Growler jet noise.

Warren Carr

Anacortes