Editorial: Airport land-use compromise ready for landing

After months of back-and-forth, it’s time to clear new zoning regulations around Glacier Park International Airport for landing. A smooth touchdown will provide landowners with clarity on future uses for their property while ensuring the airport continues to receive the financial support it needs to serve the region.

Flathead County planning staff spent the last two years drafting the proposed Airport Affected Area and have since made multiple edits based on public feedback. The latest version represents a strong compromise that protects property rights and property values while fulfilling obligations set by Montana’s Airport Compatibility Act.

The act is intended to promote aviation and public safety by establishing land-use regulations around airstrips. Officials say failure to comply could jeopardize federal funding for Glacier Park International.

The proposal establishes three zoning tiers centered on the airport.

The first zone encompasses 2,305 acres and requires minimum residential and agricultural lots of 2.5 acres, with one lot per 2.5 acres. The second zone requires a minimum lot size of 1 acre and one lot per acre. The outermost zone would add no additional subdivision restrictions.

Property owners voiced concerns about the initial proposal’s restrictions on subdivisions. Those concerns are understandable. But they should be more than pleased with the latest amendments, which substantially increase the density allowed under the proposal. Moving from one lot per 20 acres to one lot per 2.5 acres is more than a compromise; it’s a sweet deal.

The revisions retain a reasonable ability to subdivide while maintaining meaningful regulations intended to protect the public from a preventable disaster.

The commission tabled discussion during its July meeting to allow for additional comments. When talks resume in September, the board should feel comfortable coming in with gear down and flaps full.