Forum tonight focuses on Luke's future

Former Congressman Matt Salmon will lead a discussion tonight about the issues associated with Luke Air Force Base serving as a training base for F-35 fighter jets.

Salmon, who is a consultant for El Mirage, will moderate the forum at 7 p.m. in Mountain View Recreation Center, 9749 N. 107th Ave., Sun City.

The Glendale base, the largest fighter wing and only active-duty F-16 training base in the world, is competing with other bases as the future training site for pilots of F-35s, the next generation of fighter jets designed to replace the F-16.

A panel of experts has been asked to discuss sound impacts, development impacts, quality of life issues and options for a mission for the base, according to event organizers.

"This is a critical time for El Mirage, the West Valley and the state of Arizona," said El Mirage Mayor Michele Kern. "As we enter the Environmental Impact Study phase of the military’s site-selection process, the key considerations will be determined. For our residents, quality of life and economic vitality is paramount. We want to hear from our residents and all sides of the issue so that we can be as informed as possible entering the scoping process."

Scoping is the first step in the EIS process in which the military determines the specific criteria the site will be evaluated within, according to El Mirage officials. Noise, encroachment, airfield and flight modifications, weather and proximity to the Barry Goldwater range could all be factors, among others. Cities will lobby for certain issues to be included within the scope.

El Mirage has been holding off support of the new jet locating at Luke until the noise level emanating from the jet can be assessed.

For information, visit www.CityofElMirage.org.