News release from the city of Forks today:
Mayor Bryon Monohon is pleased to announce that the City of Forks has received approval from the NW Region of the FAA that the City can permit motor vehicle racing to occur at the Forks Municipal Airport in 2012.
“This is truly good news and is greatly appreciated,” noted Mayor Monohon. “We have worked very hard to reach this point, and the FAA has been very fair in their interactions with the City. “
The FAA’s approval does not reflect any decision on the City’s formal request for a continuation of the use of the Forks Municipal Airport by West End Thunder beyond 2012.
“We thoroughly understand that this permission is for only 2012 and does not reflect any final position of the FAA on the period beyond 2012,” acknowledged Mayor Monohon.
“We appreciate the time and effort that the FAA’s NW Region staff has expended upon this effort.
“In the midst of various challenges, they have been extremely professional and forthright in their commitment to the nation’s aviation community and infrastructure. We have learned a lot about that important function in this process.”
“I think it is really important to acknowledge the assistance and cooperation of West End Thunder, the Port of Port Angeles, the Clallam County Economic Development Council, and our own City folks,” noted Mayor Monohon.
“Further, U.S. Senator Patty Murray and her staff have been invaluable in this entire endeavor; and, Congressman Dicks’ office has provided much needed support to make this happen.”
The City will now work to extend the current agreement with West End Thunder at its next Council meeting on 9 April 2012.
It will also begin the process of notifying the various interested stakeholders of the 2012 racing schedule which currently is set to include the following dates: 19-20 May, 9-10 Jun, 14-15 Jul, 11-12 Aug, and 15-16 September.
Affirmation of this schedule will be part of the review by the City Council at its 9 April 2012 meeting.
