There are two versions of the Golden Rule. The original version, " Do unto others as you would have them do unto you." The cynical version is "He who has the gold makes the rules." Reality is a mix of the two.
The noise from tourist air boats, raised as an issue at a recent Commission meeting, brings to mind the noise of jet aircraft near airports. Also, the noise and disturbance of wildlife by snowmobiles in National Parks has become a problem, as has helicopter flights over the Grand Canyon. There have been technical and regulatory solutions to these problems.
There are technical solutions to air boat noise. Mufflers, low noise-propellers and lower prop speeds through reduction gears are possible. Use of these devices by all air boat owners seems about as likely as hitting a traffic jam in Otter Creek.
Air boat noise is a hot button issue that may only be solved by legal methods. However, politicians like to avoid issues with passionate supporters, no matter how small the group. Legal solutions include strict enforcement of the current law, limiting the hours of air boat use, conditional licensing, and protection of wildlife under current regulations. But perhaps the problem can be solved by mediation and compromise.
Consideration is the basis of the original Golden Rule. Compromise can be a part of the cynical version. Obviously commercial interests are at stake. The value of properties occupied for the peace and wildlife viewing by our community is affected by the noise of excursion air boats. The income from tourists riding air boats is a factor. Invoking a constitutional right to make noise just "won`t fly." Let`s use common sense and solve this problem. | 