LIVERMORE - Recommendations for a Livermore Municipal Airport noise-monitoring system costing up to $170,000 will be considered Monday night by the City Council.
Of four options reviewed, including two involving periodic monitoring, a city consultant recommends one that involves five permanently installed noise monitors.
Two of the monitors would be located east of the airport in Livermore, two located west of the airport in Pleasanton and one on the airport property itself.
More sophisticated systems are available that could help the airport more quickly and accurately track and identify aircraft. But they are far costlier, and the airport's objectives "can be met with standard noise-monitoring equipment," according to a report from Public Services Director Dan McIntyre.
Cost is estimated at between $155,000 and $170,000, and about $20,000 annually would be needed to cover the cost of utilities and technical support. The plan also would require a permanent part-time employee to administer the program, at an estimated cost of $45,000 per year.
In July, the council agreed to pay for noise monitoring with money from both the city's general fund and an airport users' fund. However, the city of Pleasanton will be asked to participate in the cost of monitors installed within its jurisdiction.
The council on Monday also will discuss the potential construction of additional airport hangars, for which McIntyre says there are waiting lists.
A written report from McIntyre says the city has expanded its noise complaint system, improved outreach to pilots and, in efforts to reduce noise from jets flying to the Oakland International Airport, persuaded the Federal Aviation Administration to direct them to fly higher and farther south over the Livermore-Amador Valley. It also has joined federal lobbying to phase out older, high-noise "Stage 2" jets.
Airport officials say they continue to seek voluntary compliance with a 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. flight curfew but can't enforce it under federal law.
Monday's council meeting will begin at 7 p.m. at 3575 Pacific Ave. in Livermore.
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