Hebert's bill would close landfill near ARA

BY HEATHER MILLER
THE DAILY IBERIAN
Published/Last Modified on Wednesday, May 6, 2009 2:07 PM CDT

As the enclosure of Gordon Doerle’s pickup station nears completion and his landfill site continues through the state permitting process, state Sen. Troy Hebert has again filed legislation to try and stop the landfill from operating.

Senate Bill 317 would prohibit construction and debris landfills from being located within 5,000 feet of an airport serving piston-powered aircrafts, thus applying to Doerle’s landfill and its proximity to the Acadiana Regional Airport.

“I don’t want to go through this again,” Doerle said. “I’ve spent $1 million to put this building up, and when it’ll be done in two weeks, then they put up a bill to stop it.”

Workers, right, walk Tuesday near the enclosure that is being built at Gordon Doerle's pickup station near ARA.

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The bill is similar to the one Hebert filed during the 2008 regular legislative session, but excludes the 70,000-75,000 population clause and allows for a garbage pickup and processing station like the one Doerle is building.

“As a senator, I cannot just sit back and allow one person’s greed to destroy one of the best economic engines that our area has,” said Hebert, D-Jeanerette. “Anyone with common sense can see that a landfill located directly at the end of a runway will severely restrict the Acadiana Regional Airport’s ability to reach its full economic potential.”

Last year’s bill passed in the Legislature and was signed into law by Gov. Bobby Jindal. But the law was ruled unconstitutional by a 19th Judicial District judge who said the population clause made it a local law that only applies to Doerle’s landfill and Iberia Parish.

When Doerle started operating a pickup station  and made plans to expand his landfill into Iberia Parish, the Iberia Parish Council initially denied local permits to Doerle because of existing parish solid waste laws and airport ordinances.

Doerle sued the parish and the parish sued back, but the two parties have since reached a settlement allowing Doerle to operate his pickup station as long as he encloses it. The settlement also allows him to expand his landfill into the parish.

Doerle granted servitude to the parish as part of the settlement, and the agreement also states that no local official or local government entity may try to undermine the landfill operations.

“I want to know who’s pushing for this,” Doerle said. “Is it the airport or the Parish Council? If so, they’re breaching the settlement. Either someone’s pushing his buttons or it’s back to a personal vendetta.”

Hebert said he refiled the bill because he received an “overwhelming” amount of responses to a questionnaire he ran in The Daily Iberian in December of last year. Many who responded said they wanted Hebert to attempt to stop the landfill from opening, he said.

“Nobody has yet to explain to me why anything has changed on why a landfill being located at the end of a runway is OK now when there were so many questions on safety and marketability,” Hebert said. “One thing that’s changed is a lot of people have their hands tied and their mouths taped because of the agreements, but mine’s not and I’ll continue to fight for the airport.”

Assistant District Attorney Eric Duplantis, the Parish Council’s legal adviser, said there have been no resolutions passed through the Parish Council or the Airport Authority since the settlement asking Hebert to file the bill.

“Gordon has done everything we’ve asked him to do as far as the settlement,” Duplantis said. “This was something that was litigated, and it wasn’t something that was done lightly. We hammered out an agreement and he’s lived up to his end of the bargain.”

The Federal Aviation Administration has approved the enclosed pickup station, and though Hebert said the FAA does not yet approve of the landfill, Airport Director Jason Devillier said he believes the FAA will approve of the landfill as long as the pickup station is enclosed.

Hebert has invited the FAA to visit the airport to examine the situation, he said, adding companies located at the airport have spoken with him at length about the negative impact the landfill would have on airport operations.

Doerle said he will file lawsuits against the state, the state Department of Environmental Quality, the parish and the airport if the bill passes.

“I’ve more than lived up to my side of the agreement,” Doerle said. “I’ve invested too much into this for them to start playing games.”

Copyright © 2009 The Daily Iberian

Comments

    George M. Sfeir wrote on Sep 24, 2009 1:40 AM:

    " No permit should have been issued. Senator Hebert, the State and the Parish now owe for damages. Louisiana produces 2.6 million barrels of oil per day out of the whole 5.6 barrels produced in the whole USA. In order to stop being the second poorest State, we need to hold our politicians responsible for deceptive trade and changing the rules after the fact and for running businesses away. "

    ARA resident wrote on Jun 10, 2009 6:54 PM:

    " To: LNS
    When was the last time you had construction debris picked up from your home and sent to the DUMP.....That is suppose to be the only trash at the DUMP...but if it were there would not be such an awful smell that comes from his ponds that attracts all the birds..open your eyes and nose before you speak...
    THE DUMP has over 6 pages of violations from DEQ and still it remains open...NOW THAT SMELLS FISHY TO ME...especially when Haney, Romero and Freyou are traveling to Baton Rouge to speak FOR the DUMP.... "

    To Citizen wrote on Jun 7, 2009 6:56 PM:

    " What tree did you fall out of? You don't make much sense. The former parish president, along with the former senator are the one's who allowed this to occur although there were 2 ordinances on the books to disallow. Those are the two Mr. Doerle should be suing for vowing to protect him at all cost. As the former senator stated Mr. Doerle came to him years ago as a constituent to help him and in the process forsaking all of his other constituents and businesses at the airport. Something smells green and trashy.... "

    Citizen wrote on Jun 7, 2009 11:33 AM:

    " You let him build there in the first place.Now you want to take it away.Who cares what you fly over.As long as you get where you are going right.All of you need to grow up.You are suppose to be our leaders and act worse than children.Why don't you worry about things that need fixing like our schools and roads and jails and businesses and helping out those less fortunate than arguing over where the trash dump is. "

    LNS wrote on Jun 3, 2009 12:21 PM:

    " I think Mr. Hebert really looks like a fool for doing that to Mr. Doerle The Parish let him build there and gave him permits until he stopped him with his crazy ill that noone voted for anyway.No one was complaining but you. If your trying to make a name for yourself thats not the way to do it. Im for the land fill because the garbage has to go somewhere.I'm wondering what Mr. Hebert does with his garbage? Realy you must just have a vendetta against Gorden .Grow up Mr. hebert and get the roads fixed. "

    to mboutte wrote on Jun 2, 2009 3:18 PM:

    " Please go to the doctor as soon as possible as you most definitely hae a nasal or memory problem. Granted the smell is not persistent but when it does smell, it smells awful. I live less than a mile from the landfill and I also travel Hiway 88 on a daily basis. I have to shut off my vehicle's air conditioner at times and hope the smell does not infiltrate the inside of my vehicle. "

    Mike wrote on Jun 2, 2009 2:25 PM:

    " It doesn't matter what side of the issue you are on. Do not believe that just because a bill has passed one hurdle that this is over. This issue will ultimately end up in the LA Supreme Court costing all taxpayers $ "

    catchme wrote on Jun 2, 2009 1:47 PM:

    " HB317 just failed to get out of committee. I think it is over for now. "

    Laughing Wondering wrote on Jun 2, 2009 10:28 AM:

    " Seems to me the comments on this thread are getting dumber & dumber. Somewhere along the line, the discussion of this subject has taken on the aire of some personal feelings about the "landfill", and not the "issue", which is a Statewide need for airport zoning, which, in turn, is designed to improve the safety for all air travelers, and, hopefully, improve the operational effectiveness of our airports. Let's focus on the issue, and not personal feelings about the collateral issue of the "landfill". "

    To D Hertz wrote on Jun 2, 2009 6:20 AM:

    " Granted you & sky king know more about aeronautics, but as for ARA opening an airline service such as Southwest here, thats just business. It's called supply & demand. There is not enough demand here in Iberia/St. Mary parishes for an airline. Your right, this is Iberia Parish, there aren't that many commuters here, those that do commute by airlines don't mind driving a little while to Lafayette or New Orleans. Southwest Airlines would never do something so foolish as to even consider a move like that! I know yall are against the landfill, but a little-common-sense-please. "

    D. Hertz wrote on Jun 1, 2009 10:46 PM:

    " Lets see, you have no vision for airline service, no vision for expansion of air services at ARA.

    Let me guess you grew up in New Iberia and don't get out much. "

    Got Your Back wrote on Jun 1, 2009 8:37 PM:

    " To mboutte
    You have alot of nerve talking about us who do not use our name. What is yours? Should I say anymore? Airlog is good to my son and all the people that work there you moron. They pay more taxes than Doyle and also employ more people. Who wants to fly over trash? You??????????????? "

    sky king wrote on Jun 1, 2009 7:54 PM:

    " Good stuff D. Hertz!

    The ARA airport is only limited by the limits of the local management's perception !

    If airport management thinks bigger, bigger things are possible.

    This analyst sees a positive shift in aircraft possibilites at ARA with the new nearly all aircraft credentialed board.

    Airline service to ARA is indeed possible provided the airport managers focus on things aircraft and hold themselves above being manipulated for hillbilly politics and the preservation of cronyism!

    Go you magnificent 7 ! "

    angle wrote on Jun 1, 2009 1:13 PM:

    " Southwest Airlines or similar? With no access road, or hope of one. No terminal, or hope of one? No market, or hope of one? Your "vision" must be under the influnce of some substance. If you are a cancer patient or something, by appologies, otherwise I am laughing so hard I might knock down the next plane. "

    To D Hertz wrote on May 31, 2009 11:12 PM:

    " The biggest joke that I have seen on this board is your delusional thinking that a passenger airline like Southwest would come to ARA. With New Orleans 2 hours south and Lafayette 20 minutes north, your thinking that ARA will attract a passenger fleet?!! And YOU are calling others buffoons?!! "

    D. Hertz wrote on May 31, 2009 3:20 PM:

    " We all of the arguments are either for the New Iberia airport or for Gordon Doerle's landfill, when, actually, airport safety is a statewide issue.

    We airport supporters have let the corrupt parish officials define this argument as a local argument only, putting Gordon Doerle out as their poster child.

    This is a call on the airport supporters to take control over the argument and began focussing on the statewide effects that this law will have, that is to improve safety at airports around the whole State of Louisiana.

    Louisiana needs airport safety zoning. "

    D. Hertz wrote on May 31, 2009 3:49 AM:

    " To Sky King:

    You make excellent points. It is just hard to believe that the powers that be in Louisiana could actually get it right.

    Louisiana always seems to be last on all the good lists and first on all the bad lists. If this bill passes, it will be refreshing to see. "

    D. Hertz wrote on May 30, 2009 2:01 PM:

    " How bout you Rev. Raymond Brown?

    See if you can turn this into a racial issue. "

    D. Hertz wrote on May 30, 2009 2:00 PM:

    " To: "mboutte"

    Why don't YOU use your name? What a joke.

    And to think that you have made a fair analysis of the hazards to aviation caused by the landfill by driving by the landfill and looking at it from the front seat of your pickup is a bigger joke. "

    Concerned Citizen wrote on May 30, 2009 11:56 AM:

    " To" mboutte

    And just how does your not smelling the landfill, or seeing any birds, have to do with the passage of SB-317, which addresses the safety issues of airfields in our State? The measure before the State Legislature is not some vendetta agains some singular little landfill in our area. The purpose of SB-317 addresses a Statewide issue. Seems to me your comment, as well as others, support the very self-interest groups (Parish Officials) that are trying so desperately to defeat a "Bill" that serves the greater populas of Louisians, and not local pocket-books. "

    mboutte wrote on May 30, 2009 9:55 AM:

    " For those of you who support Mr Hebert I noticed most did not use your name, why not? Next I live about a mile from the landfill and pass it almost daily. I have found no foul odor no massive bird swarms or other problems. In case we forget landfills are a necessary evil in a society of gluntony. We must have a new something to "keep up". Has everyone forgotten that the land Squirrel Run is on was THE DUMP 30 or so years ago? Mr Doerle has other business interest but I would say this one providesforourcommunity "

    D. Hertz wrote on May 30, 2009 6:34 AM:

    " Some among us seem to think that just because Lafayette has airline service, there is no way Iberia will ever have airline service. There again, lack of vision.

    ARA is perfectly suited for an airline like Southwest who would make one flight to Houston per day or three days per week. Other low cost/discount airlines may prefer a set up at Iberia.

    You know there is life beyond Continental, Delta and American. "

    D. Hertz wrote on May 30, 2009 6:23 AM:

    " Either we strive to maintain and expand our airport as an aviation related complex or we keep letting encroachments like the landfill and the doo doo pond take over.

    Iberia people have notoriosly lacked vision. We love to hang on to this wink-and-nod, under-the-table deals, and corrupt politician mentality.

    For once the persons who can see the future have arisen, and the political machine has tried to squelch them.

    We need to get rid of this slate of polticians next election. "

    JJ wrote on May 29, 2009 4:13 PM:

    " I have to say this is a joke,,how many plane crashes have there been due to the BIRDS at this landfill?? I haven't heard of any EVER.. and I wouldn't even know that there is a landfill there if I didn't live in the area..That place is very well keeped up and maintaned and it's A DUMP... take a look at some other business's in the parish down right STANK... How was he able to open up there from the begining,,, we didn't have BIRDS back in the day? "

    sky king wrote on May 29, 2009 3:23 PM:

    " to D.Hertz :

    The Parish's efforts to make a band-aid, after-the-fact, stand in local aircraft zoning law (i.e. the landfill suits settlement) is indeed a joke.

    For one thing it does nothing for the other end of the airport.

    It also does nothing to protect the Jeanerette airport, and nothing for the airports in the other 63 Parishes.

    We need S.B. 317 to make it all the way to state law.

    Lastly, airplanes and helilcopters did not tear up Highway 88, dump trucks and garbage trucks did. "

    Got Your Back wrote on May 28, 2009 9:33 PM:

    " I for one are gratful to Mr Hebert for taking a stand on this. My son works for Bristow and they are good to their employee's. I will not choose danger to human lives over trash. Thank you Mr Hebert for doing something "before" something terrible happens. Birds are just as dangerous to helicopter as airplanes! The airport is also hampered by this trash pile. Who wants to fly us when you have fly over trash. "

    D. Hertz wrote on May 28, 2009 8:30 PM:

    " I heard that Troy Hebert really whooped up on Phillip Haney and his cronies last night at the Council meeting. Go Troy Hebert !

    Don't listen to that poppycock about some contract with a service tude. What makes anyone think that the Parish government will make Mr. Doerle do anything thats written in the contract? The Parish will just wink and nod at all the coming violations of the contract and there won't be a _______ thing we will be able to do about it.

    March on Troy Hebert, protect us from these idiots. "

    c. bourque wrote on May 28, 2009 5:50 PM:

    " To me, this is just all so stupid. As a resident of Coteau for over 30 years, I personally don't like the idea of a landfill in my back yard, but there are more important things Troy Hebert should be fighting for, and that is trying to take care of the roads around here. Hwy 88 is a disgrace! I have to drive it everyday and it is ridicoulous! Makes me want to move away! "

    ARA resident wrote on May 28, 2009 2:35 PM:

    " To Coteau resident:
    Perhaps you need to put on your eyeglasses when you drive by THE DUMP....There are plenty of birds...perhaps it is the foul smell from the water in those ponds; I do not really know what they are attracted to....maybe there could be something else in that DUMP besides what we all know of...But there are birds...And it smells awful....is that debris from construction sites that smells so awful??? maybe someone needs to take a closer look..THE DUMP could be moved away from the runway and away from neighboring family homes that have been here for generations........ "

    coteau resident wrote on May 28, 2009 11:33 AM:

    " i have worked and lived in this area all my life and see way more birds from the farmer's field work than the dump has ever produced and always clean and doesnt smell bad i think all of you need to better educate ur selves if they shut the dump down he can open what ever he wants there how about all the cry babies keep ur trash at ur house for a while and lets see how many birds you get the dump is just a scapegoat for the birds and to these they say move it where ?someonewillbeunhappy "

    sky king wrote on May 28, 2009 7:33 AM:

    " response to oh the Birds:

    Birds over the airport property are of course a concern to aircraft operations. However the much larger concern is birds on the approach and departure ends of the runway in which airplanes would have much higher impact speeds.

    If you did not know it, there are looming plans to massively expand the landfill operation.

    At some point in the future, a softer political environment at DEQ might grant a garbage variance instead of construction debris.

    Hence S.B.317 which prescribes spacing between landfills and airports for all 64 Parishes. "

    OhTheBirds wrote on May 28, 2009 12:07 AM:

    " First, I would like to know the comparison between the farmers and the landfill of which attracts more birds. Second, can anyone tell me when the flock of birds are circling at the landfill? I don't see them when I have driven by and would like to know the species that is attracted to non-food waste. The only time I have seen flocks of birds circling the airport is when the farmers are tending to their fields. Why has this not been an addressed issue of safety concern? Seems once sided to me. So much for free enterprise. "

    Frank Rizzo wrote on May 27, 2009 4:50 PM:

    " I do not have a personal vendetta against Senator Hebert, but as a voter and a constituent of his don't I have the privilege of voicing my concerns about the politics of the day? This story is the hot topic of our community at this time and because you disagree with me is no reason for me to be silenced or impugned.

    To sky king: I appreciate your correcting me with professionalism. I do not have a copy of the bill. I'm just going by what Senator Hebert said in a recent article, that this will only effect-one-landfill. "

    Frank Rizzo wrote on May 27, 2009 4:37 PM:

    " Please note that I am able to convey my opinions without belittling or impugning anybody. Why is it that we cannot have an open discussion without the attacks? I guess this is standard procedure for the times that we are in, if one disagrees with someone we must belittle them.

    As for the thinking big, I seriously doubt that if the landfill is moved that we will still see the items you've listed happen here at ARA when they are but 20 miles away. How many of these contracts have we lost due to the landfill? "

    D. Hertz wrote on May 27, 2009 2:03 PM:

    " To Frank Rizzo:

    Your comments amount to nothing more than buffoonery.

    Think big for a change, you know, aircraft complex with airline service, commuter air service, trams to bring all the people around, rental car stations, terminal building with overpriced coffee, etc. "

    sky king wrote on May 27, 2009 12:54 PM:

    " Rizzo: I think you are making assumptions on what is and is not in Senate Bill 317. In the worst case Doerle would only have to re-space. I encourage you to get a copy of the bill and study it before you speculate more.

    So far as I know, there are no singular provisions in S.B. 317 intended to be harmful only to Doerle's individual operations.

    I'll try to get a copy of it myself, just to make sure. "

    To Frank Rizzo wrote on May 27, 2009 12:41 PM:

    " How ironic. Mr. Doerle was protected as long as his friend & insurance provider, Craig Romero was senator. There is no animosity from Senator Hebert towards Mr. Doerle. This bill is about "economic development," "safety," and "quality of life." The only animosity that's been repetitive is yours against Senator Hebert.

    Why should citizens, business owners @ ARA have to pay the price for Mr. Doerle's poor choices? He should have remained @ his first location, next to SugArena.

    Enough with your personal vendetta against Senator Hebert!

    Bravo Senator!!! "

    Doerle brought this on himself wrote on May 27, 2009 12:12 PM:

    " Doerle brought this on himself. How you ask? Does it take an idiot to realize that you don't put a dump at the end of a runway? Then, to top it off START RAISING CATTLE AT THE END OF THE RUNWAY? He did that on purpose to antagonize his opposers. He deserves to spend way more money than he did already.

    THANK YOU TROY! KEEP UP THE FIGHT! "

    ARA resident wrote on May 27, 2009 9:22 AM:

    " You are in total denial....we are NOT set on "destroying the MAN...we are asking that THE DUMP be in a safer place....some place where it would not be in the path of the only runway we have ...We would all be able to live in peace and no more controversies....Why did he have to align THE DUMP exactly with the runway....He owns other properties...why not put it there???
    It seems like such common sense....to those who possess COMMON SENSE.... "

    Frank Rizzo wrote on May 27, 2009 9:04 AM:

    " But sky king, only one landfill will be closed due to this bill. The only one that Senator Hebert is concerned with is his political enemy's landfill, the rest will be grad-fathered in. If this landfill were owned by one of Senator Hebert's friends this whole debate would be a non issue, or at best he would be looking for some sort of compromise, but since it is owned by Gordon ( who is aligned with the Romero's ), well no compromise is good enough, it simply must be closed. "

    sky king wrote on May 27, 2009 7:09 AM:

    " Looks like you nice people are getting off track again. Senate Bill 317 is about statewide mandated spacing between landfills and public use airports.

    One is either for or against the minimum spacing.

    Landfills are not outlawed in this bill, on spacing or re-spacing is required.

    This bill is not about who rates or does not rate in the universe.

    Be nice people. We need airports and we need lanfills.

    One could operate a brothel next door to a church but both entities would suffer.

    Space them apart and they both thrive. "

    Dangerous wrote on May 26, 2009 11:22 PM:

    " If it is so dangerous, give us a list of accidents that the landfill has caused so far. Since the landfill has been in operation in it's current location, I can only think of one accident at ARA, and that was due to PILOT ERROR. "

    D. Hertz wrote on May 26, 2009 8:25 PM:

    " Oh I forgot, the United States military, including the US Airforce, United States Army, US Marine Corp, US Navy, US Coast Guard and NASA all use ARA as a refueling stop. I am sure that those people who risk their lives protecting our liberties don't need to have the added risk of flying into a flock of birds at the end of the runway.

    To risk all of this activity to pad the pockets of one trash pile owner and his political cronies makes no sense.

    Welcome to the Banana Republic of Iberia Parish. "

    ARA resident wrote on May 26, 2009 4:51 PM:

    " To angle:
    If all you are doing is paying taxes and not making a profit....why do you stay...is it because maybe you yourself has something to do with Doerle's....maybe ...sure makes one wonder..

    I agree...let D.Hertz take on the contract to get rid of our garbage without putting any of us in harm's way....Why is it that there must always be some sort of tragic end to something like this before people open their eyes.....

    THANK YOU SENATOR TROY HEBERT "

    Angle wrote on May 26, 2009 3:03 PM:

    " ARA resident - following your logic, almost every drug and food item in the store should be banned. They COULD all kill you. Also cars, bicycles, motorcycles, razors, trampolines, treadmills, beds, . . . well you get the point, actually YOU probably don't, but most will. You remind me of those who want to spend 30 million for an overpass on Lewis Street because someone might have to wait on the train in an ambulance (though it has never happened) while our streets that could all be fixed for that sum crumble. "

    angle wrote on May 26, 2009 2:58 PM:

    " Mr. Hertz, I don't even know the man, and am not defending HIM. I do think he provides EXCELLENT service, UNSURPASSED service actually. That said, what I am defending is free enterprise and the capitalist system this country was built on. If you can't see the threat, I really feel sorry for you. I can flip your question and ask why are you dead set on destroying this man / business? He / it is not a threat to the airport except in the minds of those who refuse to accept the facts. "

    Reule Brousssard wrote on May 26, 2009 2:00 PM:

    " Tell you what, if we make the airport no good, then why don't we get some other bad businesses to come in, since we trashed the airport. "

    ARA resident wrote on May 26, 2009 11:01 AM:

    " "It certainly raises a red flag," Dolbeer said. "I don't think enough research has been done to really determine if these fully enclosed facilities do not attract wildlife. ...
    This should say it all............
    Why all the fuss to keep something so dangerous....
    Move it......... "

    concerned ARA resident wrote on May 26, 2009 10:57 AM:

    " About 700 yards from the end of a LaGuardia Airport runway, where thousands of planes take off and land, New York officials want to build what could be the equivalent of a bird magnet: a very large garbage transfer station.

    Just four months after a run-in with birds sent a jet full of people into the Hudson River separating New York and New Jersey.Of all the places to put it, why direct deadline center at the end of a runway?" "

    D. Hertz wrote on May 26, 2009 8:19 AM:

    " Why are you people soooo supportive of one trash pile owner. You act like he is the only person on this earth that is capable of picking up the trash in the City and disposing of it, like some sort of garbage savior.

    I would gladly take over the contract, build a landfill in some remote location, or dispose of the trash in other ways, and reap the millions of dollars in government funds doing so.

    And I am sure we could find many a person to do it. "

    Reule Broussard wrote on May 25, 2009 9:45 PM:

    " Mr. Hertz, you mean to tell me that there are all of these businesses operating at the airport and we are risking all of this because of that stinky trash pile?

    When will these local yocals get it right? This is pathetic!

    How in the _____ will we ever be proud of this community/ "

    Frank Rizzo wrote on May 25, 2009 3:07 PM:

    " I'm not being facetious, just curious. How many contracts has Acadiana Regional Airport lost due to the landfill's location?
    Does anybody know? Can you list them here for us to see? "

    Thankful to Gordon wrote on May 25, 2009 1:09 PM:

    " "Business development at the trash pile"

    Picks up our trash weekly so that it does not pile up in our yards for weeks and months at a time.

    Thank you Gordon! "

    angle wrote on May 25, 2009 11:04 AM:

    " Mr. Hertz, the only entity you mention that hires a good number of folks at higher wages than the landfill is Bristow, and they don't use the runway. Moreover, we don't have to choose between the airport and the landfill, WE CAN AND DO HAVE BOTH. ARA Resident, your contention that paying a few tens of thousand in taxes (of all kinds) makes one "wealthy", aside from being ludicrous, makes my point about the economics and available workforce in this area far more eloquently than I did. "

    D. Hertz wrote on May 24, 2009 8:52 PM:

    " The business development at Acadiana Regional Airport:

    Air Logistics, AvEx, Pelican Aviation, Bristow Academy, B.P. Oil, several corporations base corporate aircraft in New Iberia, twenty four aircraft owners who have purchased hangars

    Business development at the trash pile:

    Gordon Doerle's wallet. "

    Angle wrote on May 24, 2009 7:05 PM:

    " You don't want the landfill, fine. Just stop using the airport as a poor excuse. The parish already has the authority in the settlement with Doyle to close it should the FAA raise any red flags. It ain't an issue. Moreover, as I have factually laid out, and I note no attempt to dispute, ARA has been a dead end for more than 40 years. Without many millions in additional infrastructure that won’t change. Finally, I see no suggestions as to whose back yard you want to move the needed landfill to. "

    dreamcatcher wrote on May 24, 2009 6:46 PM:

    " to sick and tired of dump. actually I do live near the dump. I hear more noise from airport then landfill and the trash that flies is being picked up by gordon employees everyday. Even along the road that is being put by passimg cars and trucks. Can you say the same about other businesses in the area. What else do you want the man to do. He has gone beyond his obligations but no one seems to see everything he does for the town.I just think people are jealous of Gordon because he works at getting better. "

    ARA resident wrote on May 24, 2009 2:07 PM:

    " If you consider our family community to be a "WELFARE HAVEN"....why do you bother to stay in such an area....If I felt the way you do...I would have been long gone...especially if I was as fortunate as you to be so wealthy....You are completely wrong about the jobs on the old Navy base....And just think how many more jobs we could now bring in without THE DUMP at the end of the runway....You are so out of touch...much like Obama...... "

    D. Hertz wrote on May 24, 2009 7:22 AM:

    " You know, all of you trash dump lovers are right. We should invest heavily in this stinky, environmentally unsafe project. We should invite more parishes to send their doo doo to Iberia Parish, to further destroy our roads.

    We should pay NO attention to the development of the aircraft complex because there are a few that have a love for landfills. We should do everything we can to destroy one asset that our parish has that we can be proud of.

    Is is just Iberia or are other people around this nation that stupid? "

    Angle wrote on May 23, 2009 6:30 PM:

    " You have had the best landing strip in the state for 45 years. What has it gotten you? NOTHING! One tenant who often doesn't pay the rent, pays low wages, and will likely not survive Obama, and the helicopter operation that doesn't even use the runway. You people really do live in a fantasy. As for handouts, none, ever. Haven't been unemployed a day since I was 12 years old, and have paid my own way ever since. Pay more in taxes than the median family income in our little welfare haven. "

    save our airport wrote on May 23, 2009 12:42 AM:

    " Thank you Senator Troy Hebert....We do know the truth ..... "

    ARA resident wrote on May 23, 2009 12:40 AM:

    " Did anyone of you go out to the recent air show?? I think that something smells awful fishy when THE DUMP is putting up money to put on the air show around the same time Senate Bill 317 passes.....Hmmmmm... "

    To Angle wrote on May 23, 2009 12:32 AM:

    " Just what hand outs have you received from Obama....What are you doing to get handouts???Please let us all know what handouts are available from THE DUMP verses our airport........This one I have just got to hear... "

    ARA resident wrote on May 23, 2009 12:26 AM:

    " To Angle:
    I sure hope you were referring to all the jobs that will be lost if we do not continue to fight for our airport and all and jobs that could depend on it and not THE DUMP....We have one the best...if not the BEST landing strips in the state...why would we even consider letting THE DUMP staying where it is and not being able to even try to bring in bigger and better to our airport...Let's be known for our huge DUMP....it appears to project more quality jobs than an airport... "

    Angle wrote on May 22, 2009 3:54 PM:

    " It is pretty obviouls from this forum that the airport is a straw dog. This is about the folks who live in the area of the landfill, the NIMBY crowd. At least be honest about it. And don't cry when more jobs leave Iberia Parish, and Louisiana, and the USA because other folks would welcome such a business. It's nice that we are so well off that we give our jobs to them. Let Obama know we won't be needing his hand outs anymore. We got all we need. "

    Drean Big wrote on May 22, 2009 3:50 PM:

    " I will make a prediction, and put up a (one) C Note to back it up. One year, two years, three years from the close of the Landfill, I predict there will be no new tenants, no Fex Ex, no nothing at the airbase that isn't already there. My money is on the line. The fact is that Iberia Parish simply has NOTHING to offer. No workforce, no housing, no infrustructure, no quality of life that would be recognized by a CEO's wife, in short, nothing to attract big business. Don't hurt to dream though. "

    sky king wrote on May 22, 2009 1:09 PM:

    " Good observation Mr. Hertz. The management of ARA has never saw fit to hire an aircraft business recruiter.

    Historically ARA management set back and let aircraft buiness recruiting run on "automatic".

    Hopefully the stronger airport board now in place and the recent manager change will bring a re-think on aircraft business recruitment.

    One recent plus sign here is ARA has a new web-site in the making, looks like things are changing in the right way! "

    D. Hertz wrote on May 22, 2009 8:49 AM:

    " To: RCNo

    The reason that ARA has not acquired contracts as you discussed is that the management of ARA has not been pro-active in pursuing those contracts.

    Those kind of deals do not come begging. An effective airport management team must go after that kind of stuff.

    I think with the passage of SB317, we have taken a large step in changing the pattern of neglect of ARA. Hopefully SB317 will usher in greater things. "

    RCNo wrote on May 21, 2009 10:31 PM:

    " Okay, so they close the landfill; now what? What does everyone suggest happens to ARA? All the major package carriers, UPS, FedEx, DHL, AirExpress, etc., are operating in Lafayette. ARA, only my opinion, seems to be a better choice for that type of operation. Why did ARA not get one, if not all, of those contracts to have an operating facility? What other uses are being considered to add to the viability of the airport? Anything that will attract public use and not just other private businesses? "

    sick and tired of THE DUMP wrote on May 21, 2009 10:07 PM:

    " To dreamcatcher: You must NOT live near THE DUMP if you don't hear all the noise or see trash flying around the property from THE DUMP and THE DUMP trucks...How about the condition of Hwy 88 in front of THE DUMP...Take THE DUMP downtown near the other DUMP....

    Thanks, Senator Hebert....we are behind you all the way and will continue to be........
    Save our airways..we will need them "

    to pile on ol Rizzo wrote on May 21, 2009 10:04 PM:

    " The answer is YES! You are WRONG!!

    Case closed! "

    Frank Rizzo wrote on May 21, 2009 1:07 PM:

    " Since this has obviously turned into a "pile on ol Rizzo" post, this whole debate can be summed up in the answer to one question. Had Gordon supported and contributed to Senator Hebert's campaign would Troy still be on this crusade to shut down the landfill? If the answer to that question is yes, then you are right and I am wrong, Troy is working for the people. However, if the answer to that question is no, then I am right and you are wrong, Troy would be on a personal vendetta crusade. "

    red baron wrote on May 21, 2009 12:30 PM:

    " Rizzo:

    You seem to forget the issues at hand; Landfill operations in the vicinity of airports in 64 Louisiana Parishes. Not how rotten this or that individual is.

    From your postings I have to doubt that you are literate in subjects outside the aircraft industries, of which you indeed profess to being illiterate.

    Why don't you check out some books on scientific thinking and deductive reasoning, then you can be a more effective poster.



    But since you seem to like a good fight "

    Fact Is wrote on May 21, 2009 11:13 AM:

    " Frank Rizzo: Fact is, you never answer a question; it's always innuendo's or accusations. The opinion that is being formed by all is you have a personal vendetta against Senator Hebert. Sour grapes anyone? "

    Frank Rizzo wrote on May 21, 2009 9:56 AM:

    " Oh I'm sorry sky king, I was unaware that I had to have "aircraft credentials" and be "aircraft literate" in order to have an opinion and post ON YOUR FORUM! I can assure you that I have credentials in other areas that you are probably illiterate in. But being that you are a pilot, you probably think that you know everything about everything. However, since this is still America, and still is an open forum, my OPINION is that this is not Troy's first vendetta crusade, which leads me to believe the way that I do. "

    To Frank Rizzo wrote on May 21, 2009 9:33 AM:

    " All your accusations are pure speculation. There is nothing apparent proving wealth; obviously you seem to know more OR you are lying. Why don't you prove how very, very wealthy Senator Hebert is being you "know so much?"

    Senator Hebert voted "no" for the pay increase; stop grasping for straws. I recommend you take the advice from "sky king."

    You have never accepted the fact that Senator Hebert is here to stay and there isn't anything anyone can say to change your mind...so move on with your personal vendetta and start gardening, that-is,-if-you-can-comprehend!--Laugh-out-louder!!!! "

    To sky king wrote on May 21, 2009 9:14 AM:

    " Well said!! "

    sky king wrote on May 21, 2009 8:18 AM:

    " Rizzo:

    Last time I checked, Senator Hebert does not have a Ferrari, and lives in a rather common house. Perhaps you have access to Senator Hebert's bank account information? You are the most unscientific poster in this forum.

    I reject your notion that any elected official in support of the Louisiana aircraft interests is automatically up to no good.

    Whereas I assume you have no aircraft credentials and are therefore aircraft illiterate, why don't you take up gardening or something you can better comprehend? "

    Frank Rizzo wrote on May 20, 2009 10:45 PM:

    " Again to my ghost responder. A lot of things have "sunk into my noggin" but one thing that still has not, and you have still failed to answer is the question of, how do legislators (like Senator Hebert) go into office as middle class "good ol boy from Jeanerette" but come out of office very very wealthy? Last year they were begging us for a pay increase because they were all broke, yet they are all rich. How is that?
    Laugh out loud! "

    Frank Rizzo wrote on May 20, 2009 10:38 PM:

    " To the person who responded to me. I'm entitled to my opinion, and I believe that this is all about personal vendettas being settled. Senator Hebert proved that when he lied and said that no existing landfills will be put out of business. I don't see how people like you can defend our legislators putting private businesses out of business. The two entities are both growing and doing great things for our community, yet for some reason Hebert wants to close one of them, even when most of our community is for the landfill remaining open. "

    Joe the plumber wrote on May 20, 2009 8:29 PM:

    " shut him down! "

    To D. Hertz wrote on May 19, 2009 6:48 PM:

    " Representative Simone Champagne is in support of this bill. She was in support of the previous 2 bills. She sits on the House Natural Resource/Environmental Committee. As for Representative Taylor Barras, he walked out of the house chambers last year to avoid voting on the 2 bills. Gordon Doerle does banking with Iberia Bank. I recommend bombarding Representative Barras' local office with phone calls in support of this bill and see how he responds in voting this time. Demand he vote and not disregard the "wiil of the people." "

    To Frank Rizzo wrote on May 19, 2009 6:37 PM:

    " It's very clear you have a personal vendetta against Senator Hebert.

    You appear very ignorant and foolish with your outlandish accusations...but you apparently answered your own question....."with a handshake." Laugh out loud!

    This fight is about "quality of life," "safety" and "economic growth" not personalities!! Could you please let that sink in your noggin? Geez! "

    Willam Gee wrote on May 19, 2009 4:29 PM:

    " I'm bummed. Guess I'll get some sushi and a Mojito~ "

    will be dumping on your property soon wrote on May 19, 2009 3:58 PM:

    " ARA is, was, and always will be a dead end. Landfill, no landfill. What you see, is all you are ever going to get. Anyway, this never had anything to do with the airport. It is about the NIMBY crowd who want us to pay for their poor judgment in building in an unzoned rural area, and Troy's personal feeling for Gordon. The one thing that actually works for the majority here is going to be shut down for the few. That isn't helping "the little guy". "

    Harold Plaisance wrote on May 19, 2009 2:24 PM:

    " I welcome the good news. Maybe I am just cynical but I can see the locals fouling this one up in some way. If this law really changes things, I'll be pleasantly amazed, "

    D. Hertz wrote on May 18, 2009 8:24 PM:

    " The Louisiana Senate just PASSED Senator Hebert's bill 37-0.

    Whuuuuuuuuuuu ! ! ! Yeeeaaaahhhh ! ! !

    Its about time this pattern of corruption changes.

    Take that Phil Haney.

    Many thanks to Senator Troy Hebert for standing up to the total nonsense of our so called local leaders.

    Keep up the good work Senator Troy Hebert. "

    sky king wrote on May 18, 2009 7:11 PM:

    " Breaking news, Senate Bill 317 passed the entire Senate 37-0 on Monday, May 18!

    Looks like the Louisiana Legislature and the Louisiana aircraft industries are not gonna let the tail wag the dog after all!

    Apparently the rest of the state doesn't agree the sorry local patch job airport zoning model put out by Iberia Parish is aircraft proper!

    Good work to Mr. Hebert and the aircraft interests in Louisiana! "

    Harold Plaisance wrote on May 18, 2009 2:35 PM:

    " Is New Iberia always going to be a back woods, non-progressive, kind of banana republic?

    What do I tell my grandchildren as they are coming up?

    We had the chance to preserve a transportation terminal but couldn't because one man needed to keep getting rich with a trash pile business, and that's the way it is in these parts, etc.

    So you best move out of this area and make something of yourself, lest you get caught up in the same backstabbing type political games.

    Go west young man, go west.

    Yes sir grandpa. "

    Fly guy wrote on May 18, 2009 2:13 PM:

    " I used to live in New Iberia and took flying lessons at ARA. I question the wisdom in allowing a hazard at the end of runway 34.

    I've flown in an out of many airports across the country and had some close calls with wildlife in the air (birds). Why would anyone do things to encourage wildlife to exist near an airport?

    Imagine that, tuning in to New Iberia to see what's up and seeing them trying to destroy the biggest asset they have, ARA.

    You will never get an airline intersted in ARA. "

    Reule Brousssard wrote on May 18, 2009 1:29 PM:

    " Mr. Hertz, thats really funny, "Iberia Airport Parish Lack of Authority" ! Do they have any real authority or are they just some advisory board?

    Why can't our elected people just do the riight thing? Even with the little education I have, I can figure that putting a landfill next to an airport is a bad idea.

    Do these elected people have to go to some kind of classes to hold office? If not they should. "

    D. Hertz wrote on May 18, 2009 10:08 AM:

    " To Frank Rizzo

    The airport is fine with it because according to Sky King's post from the other thread, the airport members were under a gag order fromi Phil Haney himself, not to speak about the bill whatsoever.

    Why would Phil Haney do this? Why have an airport board. It should be renamed to:

    "Iberia Parish Airport Lack of Authority" "

    D. Hertz wrote on May 17, 2009 9:44 PM:

    " Why is everyone scared of Doerle's threat of lawsuits? Does he have ALL of the local politicians in his pocket?

    This is beginning to stink the high heaven.

    And by the way, where does our so-called state representatives Simone Champagne and Taylor Barras stand on all of this? Will they also jump on the landfill train? "

    Reule Broussard wrote on May 17, 2009 8:55 PM:

    " Maybe there is some politics going on between Troy Hebert and these local officials. My daddy always told me to look for the money.

    Where is the money and who is benefitting from money by the local officials opposing the airport?

    Mr. Doyle is of course. But why this passionate "stand by my man" attitude of the local politicians?

    Like daddy said follow the money. "

    William Gee wrote on May 17, 2009 2:01 PM:

    " In reading these posts I have learned that birds are attracted to rodents which is precisely why Councilman Narrator Hulin doesn't want the landfill near his home. He is a rodent. Case solved we may all go home. "

    Frank Rizzo wrote on May 17, 2009 11:28 AM:

    " To the other person who responded to me; You expect us to believe that out of all of the hurricanes that have come through here over the years since Senator Hebert has owned his construction company, that all he has made from the cleanups is $200,000? And "I'm" the one with the fuzzy math?!! You're the one with your head in the sand. Troy makes more than $200,000 on just a simple handshake from any lobbyist. My question is, how do politicians go into office as middle class, yet come out of office rich? "

    Frank Rizzo wrote on May 17, 2009 11:21 AM:

    " D. Hertz and others keep on making statements such as "choosing" between the airport and the landfill. Why do we have to choose? They are both functioning fine and even expanding in their current locations. The people are fine with the current arrangement, as well as the airport & Parish Council. Senator Hebert should look into State matters and leave this issue to the local authorities. If he wanted to deal with this he should run for Parish President. "

    sky king wrote on May 17, 2009 11:07 AM:

    " Iberia Parish was asleep at the wheel for over 40 years with no aircraft zoning laws. Now we have an unending landfill fight.

    Senator Hebert's Senate Bill 317 is a statewide airport zoning bill that will protect the other 63 Louisiana Parishes from ever having to pitch a costly undending fight like of the one in Iberia Parish.

    All of the aircraft experts at the S.B. 317 hearing testified for the bill and against the notion of landfills in the immediate vicinity of airports.

    Good job, Mr. Hebert! "

    D. Hertz wrote on May 17, 2009 12:38 AM:

    " These local officials should not have made a deal with Mr. Doerle if there was a possibility that another law would be passed outlawing the landfill.

    Its crazy to think that these arrogant local officials should have been consulted before Senator Troy Hebert crafted a law which helps out airport development around the whole state. "

    D. Hertz wrote on May 16, 2009 6:03 PM:

    " I am getting info from the related thread. What is this about the local officials taking sides? I bet a vast majority of the voting public would pick the airport over the landfill.

    Keep pressing on Troy Hebert. The only naysayers are the ones trying to profit off of the landfill. "

    Annoyed wrote on May 16, 2009 1:43 PM:

    " And Troy Hebert is a Senator,not a Representative- idiots! "

    Annoyed wrote on May 16, 2009 1:40 PM:

    " Oh my GOD! I just threw up in my mouth reading these ignorant posts! Do you think Troy Hebert has nothing better to do? I assure you this is a pain in his "you know what" to continue to pursue this. He does not have to time to argue for the sake of -personality conflct- It's what his people, the ones he represents, the ones that voted for him, HIS CONSTITUENTS want. He cares less about BIG MONEY! Simple-As-That!

    Thats all for now- "

    To Frank Rizzo wrote on May 15, 2009 9:40 PM:

    " Dang Frank, I like your math, fuzzy math that is. To get millions out of two hundred thousand plus....a bit much, don't you think? Please!!! You will never accept Senator Hebert as our leader, get over it...he exemplifies true leadership! He has not sold out the people he represents. Don't quit senator, please continue to fight for us.

    So Frank, you are calling the businesses @ the airport and all the people who are in opposition liars with a personal vendetta? Appears you are the one with a personal vendetta against Senator-Hebert. "

    Frank Rizzo wrote on May 15, 2009 5:12 PM:

    " To D. Hertz: You don't feel any sympathy for Gordon because" he has made millions from hurricane cleanups?" How do you think Senator Hebert has made his millions?!! Hurricane cleanups!!
    I just drove by the airport form watching the air show practices, guess what, no birds, no accidents. I don't care where you try to put a landfill, there will always be people who will have a reason for not putting it in that particular location. This time everybody is using the excuse of the airport, when all it really is, is politics & personal vendettas. "

    LLTB wrote on May 15, 2009 2:40 PM:

    " Dear redneck-1, I too have been there but as you have been there "several times" I would consider you more knowledgeable than myself. Please educate the rest of us. I'm only human and don't readily trust anonymous words so please provide picture proof. As this paper wouldn't print such proof please upload your photos to a public photo sharing website and inform us of their location. Personally I'm clueless as to the timeline and permit process this facility had to undertake in order to operate. Someone had to grant a permit. Any clues? "

    To LLTB wrote on May 15, 2009 1:10 PM:

    " Birds are attracted to RODENTS! "

    Rebel wrote on May 14, 2009 10:29 PM:

    " Why does it matter how much money Mr. Gordon has made? If he makes to much money he MUST be a bad guy . He has a service that a lot of people need. "

    redneck-1 wrote on May 14, 2009 10:21 PM:

    " TO: LLTB
    Do you realy think it;s just construction debris think again i have been there many times you don't have a clue. "

    D. Hertz wrote on May 14, 2009 6:14 PM:

    " To: "Landfill support"

    Of course we need landfills. I don't think Mr. Doerle is some big hero for operating a "construction debris and yardwaste" landfill. If he didn't do it, I am sure we would find someone else to volunteer to operate a facility which generates millions of dollars and makes its owner wealthy.

    And probably we could find a person who wouldn't put the landfill at the end of an airport runway.

    Oh yeah, and strike it rich when there is a hurricane. "

    LLTB wrote on May 14, 2009 12:45 PM:

    " So birds are attracted to construction debris, tree branches and leaves more than bugs and worms? Please people put your hatred towards the man aside and go watch a farmer working his field or watch a landowner bushhogging a pasture and try to NOT find at least one big white bird - then visit Mr. Doerle's business and compare your signtings. I'd even bet that Mr. Doerle would gladly give you the grand tour himself. It is this attitude of hate the man no matter what he does for a living that makes Louisiana look like America's trash pile! "

    landfill support wrote on May 14, 2009 11:25 AM:

    " the landfill itself is for construction debris and yardwaste. when you people in new iberia place your yardwaste and construction debris at the road, where do you think it goes? if it were not for gordon's, everytime you bag your leaves in the fall , trim a tree in your yard, or do renovations in your home you would have to load it up and drive around looking for a place to dispose of it (probably in some cane field) Gordon's landfill is designed to serve the people of the city and parish, not harm them. "

    looney toones wrote on May 14, 2009 10:58 AM:

    " Thank goodness for Representative Hebert, he is thinking of the future of Iberia Parish, that is absurd a garbage landfiill at the end of the runway which will run one of the best air runways in Louisinaa, let's help Gordon demolish the builidng, think he would buy the beer and sushi for lunch! "

    dreamcatcher wrote on May 14, 2009 12:40 AM:

    " Hertz Get your facts straight. Gordon Doerle doesn't own food service, his Dad does. Yes it means jobs for some people if you close the landfill. ust how many accidents has the landfill cause. The Hudson River accident involved a huge goose. How many geese do you see fly around the landfill. If the landfill is sooooooo dangerous, why are they having an air show this weekend and Gordon is one of the sponsors. That how great a man he is. Where the noise is concern, I don't here noise from Gordons, but the jets make a lot of noise.I "

    D. Hertz wrote on May 13, 2009 9:22 PM:

    " To Frank Rizzo:

    The answer to where does Doerle put his trash pile, is somewhere that doesn't interfere with public safety.

    I don't feel the least bit of sympathy for the plight of Mr. Doerle. He has made millions off of the Parish in hurricane cleanup and he is trying to pad his pockets some more to the detriment of our aviation investment.

    Put your trash pile elsewhere. Why does he HAVE to have the trash pile at the end of our runway? "

    just me wrote on May 13, 2009 4:30 PM:

    " If given a choice that includes the true ramifications of closing this landfill, there is no doubt what ever that the the voters would chose to keep the landfill. To all of you complaining about your back yard, YOU CHOSE to live in an unzoned rural area. Live with the results of your poor decision and quit crying. If the landfill is forced to close, I suggest a pig farm be built in it's place. "

    To Frank Rizzo wrote on May 13, 2009 12:11 PM:

    " I actually feel sorry for Mr. Doerle, his actions years ago are costing him deary today. Craig Romero is feeling a bit of "guilt" that is why he has been lobbying really hard on Mr. Doerle's behalf or it could be for his "commission" as insurance provider. (?) Mr. Doerle should have stayed @ his original site, next to SugArena, he would not be having these headaches. Bottom line, it is about "quality of life" for residents and "economic growth" for ARA. "

    To D. Hertz wrote on May 13, 2009 11:08 AM:

    " Not only did SB 317 pass in the senate committee. It had all the elements of an intense drama. Craig Romero was in the hallway lobbying for Mr. Doerle against Senator Hebert's bill; frustration set in, he was not getting his way, he then appeared @ the last minute to speak...it didn't help. What was also interesting was Craig Romero was conversing intensly with Mr. Richard Hyde, AGL Resources affiliate. Interest in this bill may affect the Save Lake Peigneur Group in a positive way. Thanks Senator Hebert for your resilience & perseverance! "

    D. Hertz wrote on May 13, 2009 8:56 AM:

    " To: redneck-1

    Maybe my comments were a little harsh. I guess we all get a bit haphazard with the keyboard when we post. My apologies to you.

    It seems we are on the same side here. The establishment of the trash pile, which is a real threat to the neighbors, a hazard to everyone using the airport and around the airport only benefits the pocketbook of one man. What sense is that?

    Doesn't Mr. Doerle make enough money on his food business? "

    Big Picture wrote on May 13, 2009 7:57 AM:

    " Well lets see an agreement was made between the city and the dump so an investment was made and now the gov'mnt is changing the rules. Now the city/state can be sued for damages. If dump shuts down the area loses jobs. A new facility will have to be used, but where? It will prob cost more for trash pickup. Great lets increase taxes for that!! Looks like you will all lose. In an attempt to make everyone equally happy gov'ment just makes everyone equally miserable. "

    Frank Rizzo wrote on May 13, 2009 6:41 AM:

    " For all of you people wanting Gordon to move, where do you propose that he move his business to? Where is a good enough place to put a trash pile? Or do you propose that we just don't need one?
    As long as we have our airport, who needs to have a trash pile right? It's going to get awfully smelly around here! "

    redneck-1 wrote on May 12, 2009 8:51 PM:

    " TO:Maurice Bart
    Where do you live ,would like a trash pile in your back yard think not and as for you D. Hertzq you would not know english if it bit you in the rear end read your own words. "

    D. Hertz wrote on May 12, 2009 8:21 PM:

    " Well chalk one up for the airport. The bill in the Senate comittee passed 4 to 3. Mr. Doerle, go put your landfill somewhere else. "

    dreamcatcher wrote on May 12, 2009 4:07 PM:

    " Doyano I was right where I am now, but the property was farmed by Mack Viator after Gordon bought it he stopped the farming. Maybe that's the problem......Gordon bought the property from ubder Mac's feet.... "

    To Mr. Lou wrote on May 12, 2009 3:28 PM:

    " You want to invoke Eminent Domain. The go ahead and pay Mr. Doerle his $20-30 Million.

    Eminant Domain. Call it what it is...Communist. "

    Expatriate wrote on May 12, 2009 3:19 PM:

    " As an expatriate of Iberia Parish, I feel a certain bit of sadness mixed with perplexity at the never ending cycle of politically motivated behavior. Specifically, while Louisiana annually finishes at or near the bottom in health care and education, it is embarrassingly humorous that we find the State Legislature fighting over a poultry plant in rural North Louisiana and locally, a significant degree of legislative clock time being spent derailing a citizen's attempt to construct a landfill. Simple solution: Use the landfill refuse at the Big Dig at the Point! Two birds - one stone! Some things never change! "

    Mr Lou wrote on May 12, 2009 2:54 PM:

    " This is a classic case to exercise the power of "Eminent Domain". ARA is vital to the economic future of Iberia Parish and Acadiana.
    My thanks go out to Sen Hebert for having the vision and foresight to understand how important ARA is. Keep up the good fight. "

    D. Hertzq wrote on May 12, 2009 8:11 AM:

    " To: redneck-1

    What? Would you please post your comments in English? "

    D. Hertz wrote on May 12, 2009 8:11 AM:

    " Why would anyone choose a stinky trash pile over a really nice airport?

    At our airport, we have the largest planes flying, landing here to get serviced. We have the military jets coming in for fuel. We have multiple helicopter companies which service the offshore industry. We have a great flock of ordinary people in general aviation.

    Why would we allow such a great hazard, which only benefits one man, to exist on the end of a runway to jeopardize all of this? "

    catchme wrote on May 11, 2009 9:36 PM:

    " Noise.....did someone yell noise? You have no idea what noise is I hate to tell you. You need to venture out and really see what noise is. You think you have a noise problem......you need to think again. "

    Maurice Bart wrote on May 11, 2009 1:24 PM:

    " This is for redneck1:
    Sir could you please tell the courtroom if there is indeed a redneck2? The public needs to know.

    Also, how would one close junk on Hwy-182? Are we humanly able to "close junk?" How does one "close junk?"

    I am utterly perplexed and mystified by your intentions. "

    redneck-1 wrote on May 10, 2009 8:33 PM:

    " Need to close it all of the junk on Hwy-182 drivers with no sence i hear his noise way by my house all of the time anybody has a problem need to relocate here because you don't live here. "

    Ward Bodin wrote on May 10, 2009 6:05 PM:

    " Who said John Wayne was dead.

    Thanks Sen. Hebert for standing up for
    those who know right from wrong. "

    D. Hertz wrote on May 10, 2009 5:36 PM:

    " Either we have an airport that is committed to aviation or we just shut the whole thing down and let everybody and his momma put up a business around it.

    We should seek to INCREASE the business and activity at the airport, not resolve ourselves to the the theory that it is not worth it. We have a great aviation facility and should stive to protect it.

    Gordon, go dump somewhere else. "

    not happy wrote on May 9, 2009 10:46 PM:

    " All you people that is saying let Deorle keep his landfill, would you want a landfill near your home or business. Everyone that is concerned about they have to have a place for all this trash, lets open one up near you. I bet your story will change. Good Job Hebert. "

    Interesting wrote on May 8, 2009 10:15 AM:

    " Rebel hit the nail on the head. It has nothing to do with the airport. It is the old syndrome, Not In My Back Yard. This is the famous saying of your parish councilman, Naray Hulin and other parish council members as well. Mr. Hulin uses that term quite loosely and often. This is what it is all about! "

    To Rebel wrote on May 8, 2009 9:24 AM:

    " Where's your property & what is the project? "

    Very Naive wrote on May 8, 2009 8:56 AM:

    " It is very naive to believe that Senator Hebert would have a personal vendetta against Mr. Doerle. On the contrary, Mr. Doerle stopped supporting Senator Hebert when he represented a vast majority of his constituents who are against the landfill.

    It seems ironic when speaking of "greed" because citzens have been fighting this for years & because of the previous senator nothing happened. Matter of fact, the former senator has been contacting B.R. on a daily basis for Mr. Doerle. How much is that costing Mr.
    Doerle?

    Thanks Senator Hebert for standing up-for-the-"little-people"-and-taking-all-the-personal-attacks-from-Mr.-Doerle-etcetera. "

    Rebel wrote on May 8, 2009 7:04 AM:

    " The airport has not expanded in years, why do you think it will now?
    Quit saying you are for the airport when you just dont want a dump in your yard!
    I would trade property with you, a project is being built next to my property, I would rather a dump than the projects. "

    frighten area resident wrote on May 8, 2009 12:46 AM:

    " This DUMP has been creating problems for our local community since day one...sure you few people would feel thrilled to have a local DUMP...Do you want it so near your homes,,,breaking all sorts of laws and having so many fines set against them..ignored by everyone...this place is a menace to our small but clean family community...if you are so for this filthy, law breaking DUMP...YOU TAKE IT TO YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD......
    We will all benefit more from the expandtion of our airport that we are so fortunate to have instead of this filthy DUMP...
    Thanks Again Mr. Troy Hebert. "

    David Paul Faulk wrote on May 7, 2009 7:23 PM:

    " Airports are economic engines but some are V8 powerhouses that burn economic rubber, and some are little 2.5 horsepower outboards just putt putting along. ARA will never displace Lafayette as the regional airport. It simply will not happen in the foreseeable futute. The defining mark between airport dreams and airline reality is passenger service by an airline, and Lafayette has the service. If ARA was indeed promising, Southwest Airlines would have already started service there years ago. The fact they have not shown up is the only litmus test that matters. All else is "

    Frank wrote on May 7, 2009 3:25 PM:

    " The two entities can coexist side by side each other just as they have done for years now. Gordon can expand without the airport up and moving, and the airport can expand without bothering Gordon. We need both businesses to remain here in our community. This is nothing more than personal vendetta's and politics. Troy is probably upset that Gordon did not support him and contribute some of his millions to the campaign. Hey Troy, Moon is still on the air also, are you going to go after him as well? "

    Always Right wrote on May 7, 2009 3:23 PM:

    " Troy is this what you call Greed? If you want to know what Greed is just look in the mirror.
    Mr. Doerle is living the American Dream...Capitalism. He is investing his money, and sweat to participate in the free market. There are laws that protect Mr. Doerle. Stop writing legislation that targets one person. You look like a fool.

    If you want Mr. Doerle's business shut down, then do it the right way...write him a check. I'm sure he has a price.

    Down with socialism! "

    Mike wrote on May 7, 2009 2:46 PM:

    " "Doyano, I bet if you asked the people that worked at those companies, they would tell you they are more worried about keeping their jobs than shutting down the landfill "

    Citizen wrote on May 7, 2009 1:54 PM:

    " Thank you Senator Hebert. You are doing a fine job and the people of Iberia will support you in doing what is right. We need the airport to expand and bring us good jobs and it wont happen with a landfill at the end of the runway. "

    Doyano wrote on May 7, 2009 1:19 PM:

    " Mike-- How many people are employed by Air Log, Avex, Pelican and Vortex?
    Dreamcatcher-- Where were you when GORDONS was farming their 100 acres? "

    Airport User wrote on May 7, 2009 12:58 PM:

    " THANKS MR. HEBERT! We are behind you 100%. Keep up the good fight. "

    Berry Bruddah wrote on May 7, 2009 11:38 AM:

    " It is painfully obvious that this has turned into a personal vendetta with Troy, which is not fair to Gordon or the people of Iberia Parish. The State Legislature is wasting everyone's tax dollars dealing with this, and it should be stopped immediately. Troy, find another cause to champion, and quit trying to take jobs AWAY from New Iberia by closing the site! "

    Slim wrote on May 7, 2009 11:08 AM:

    " To N. Hulan- If you don't see a problem where were you when Flight 1549 landed in the Hudson? "

    Ted wrote on May 7, 2009 8:27 AM:

    " Come on Troy! Can't you see the electorate sees right through your political smokescreen? Give it up for god's sake. "

    CPL wrote on May 7, 2009 7:01 AM:

    " Everybody has an opion about the airport and carry on about the bird activity and the dangers. But, has anyone every talked to the tower to get the real deal. Why of course not because certain people really don't want to hear the truth. I mean really if anyone would know about bird activity it would be the tower personnel.
    Let this dead horse rest in peace.
    Word of advice to Gordon,.. just don't break the ration plane for the landing system. "

    dreamcatcher wrote on May 7, 2009 12:37 AM:

    " I wish Troy would find another cause. Gordon has held up his end of the deal. He has done everything that has been asked of him. You want New Iberia to grow, well Gordon Landfill employes a good amount of people. Why don't you find someone else to pick on. Why is it okay to have all this farm property around the air strip? Have you ever seen a tractor work the land around the air strip, now that is birds following the tractor. Are you going to close down the cane fields next. Open your eyes please. "

    G wrote on May 6, 2009 9:47 PM:

    " Also some of the companies at the airport create trash and it is sent to WHERE? "

    G wrote on May 6, 2009 9:44 PM:

    " Just where are we going to send our trash. Some of the trash being dumped comes from offshore rigs. The recycleable cardboards, and plastics are removed, and the useless items are sent to dump sites. So if the rigs throw it overboard, and the people throw it along the roads, we shall have a bigger problem. "

    Don Corleon wrote on May 6, 2009 8:28 PM:

    " Another legislative session, another personal vendetta by Troy Hebert! "

    ARA resident wrote on May 6, 2009 6:36 PM:

    " Thanks, Mr. Hebert....We are so grateful that someone has what it takes to try to take on this dump...No One Else Seems To Have It....There are so many underlying problems with this dump...Just check out the record on all the problems...I do not see why someone that does not have to live in the same area...should have a say about how well this place is doing.....Check out the record before you make comments in the favor of the DUMP.....Keep Our Airport Up And Flying...
    AGAIN........THANKS MR. HEBERT....FOR CARING...IT WILL BE REMEMBERED........ "

    ETEE wrote on May 6, 2009 6:26 PM:

    " I always thought little of him concerning his manipulation of the Hurricane cleanup contracts to benefit himself, but I never realized what a vengeful and small man Troy Herbert was until this issue. I can't say I voted for him previously, but I can say with conviction that I never will in the future. "

    Jarred James Breaux wrote on May 6, 2009 3:57 PM:

    " While I oppose the agreement made between the parish and Gordon Doerle, I see this new bill being introduced by Rep. Hebert as a problem. I own property within a mile of this facility and it has been a central issue for the surrounding residents. The agreement to enclose the drumping station, erect debris traps, and limit the dumping to yard waste seems "okay" for both sides. The rural areas of Iberia Parish are shrinking because of urban sprawl. Since this landfill is a necessity and already exists, further legislation is unfair and not needed. Doerle has met the requirements. "

    Mike wrote on May 6, 2009 3:33 PM:

    " Here is a business that is employing numerous people who live and spend their money in Iberia parish and maybe even Jeanerette. If this bill is passed and the business has to shut down we will have more people out of work, what will Troy boy have to say then. We elect these officials to help the people of the parish and not hurt them which is what this bill will do. Hebert should maybe concentrate his efforts and getting money to help complete I-49. Be careful on what you wish for Troy "

    ARA area resident wrote on May 6, 2009 3:11 PM:

    " Thank you Mr. Hebert! Please don't give up the fight. "

    sputnik wrote on May 6, 2009 2:40 PM:

    " We had a chance to end Hebert's career, but unfortunately he was elected to another position in the La. Legislature and now he feels like every other career politican. He feels a sense of entitlement. "

    taxpayer wrote on May 6, 2009 2:24 PM:

    " Yes i Agree with Sen Hebert that is the right way to go Stand up for the littler people thanks you are a True man for Iberia Parish "

    Bubba Dump wrote on May 6, 2009 2:20 PM:

    " It's time for Hebert to go. His reason for the bill has little to do with his concern for the airport. He has become an arrogant, ineffective legislator who has not moved into the 21st. century. This area and our state deserves better than he is capable of providing. "

    I agree wG.D. wrote on May 6, 2009 2:17 PM:

    " I agree:

    Doerle said he will file lawsuits against the state, the state Department of Environmental Quality, the parish and the airport if the bill passes.

    “I’ve more than lived up to my side of the agreement,” Doerle said. “I’ve invested too much into this for them to start playing games.” "

    HipHop Narray wrote on May 6, 2009 2:15 PM:

    " I believe thoroughly that when a certain yam company was turned down for the land it became a personal attack on the landfill. This has politics written all over it. I would like to ask my councilman if he will repair my potholes or will he wait again until re-election. "

    Bruce Fooze wrote on May 6, 2009 2:13 PM:

    " I find it completely amazing how it seems coincidental that just as a food manufacturing plant was turned down from purchasing the land near the landfill that all of these problems arose for Mr. Gordon. I smell a rat. "

    Narrator Hulan wrote on May 6, 2009 2:12 PM:

    " I would like to know what personal agenda Troy Hebert has against Mr. Doerle. I don't see the problem here. "

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