(January 16, 2003) -- In a story being monitored by LBReport.com, Shaun Lumachi, VP of Gov't Affairs for the LB Area Chamber of Commerce, tells us that at this morning's meeting of the Chamber's Government Affairs Committee the following policy position for 2003-04 was approved regarding LB Airport:

"Review and support, as appropriate, efforts to maximize potential for job creation and growth at the Long Beach Airport within the existing Airport Noise Compatibility Ordinance. Monitor state and federal airline industry legislation."

This position will be forwarded to the Chamber's Board of Directors which could adopt it (and other policy positions) on January 26 as official Chamber policy.

Mr. Lumachi also told LBReport.com that the process of adopting Chamber policies began last September and involved Government Affairs Committee members "with input from the business community, Chamber membership and anyone willing to give us input." Mr. Lumachi indicated the language adopted by the Committee this morning was with his support as the Committee's staffperson.

The Chamber's Government Affairs Committee is chaired by Travis A. Montgomery, Vice President and Chief of Staff at the Queen Mary.

Another component of local airport advocacy is the Airport Area Business Council, described on the Chamber's web site as follows: "Seeks to maximize and demonstrate the full economic potential of the Long Beach Airport as a major employment base within the greater Long Beach area." The Airport Area Business Council is chaired by Curt Castagna of Aeroplex Aviation.

Mr. Castagna told LBReport.com it is not the policy of the Airport Area Business Council to seek airport expansion. He has also previously testified at City Council meetings in support of maintaining LB's Airport Noise Compatibility Ordinance which includes a noise budgeted flight level that has equated to 41 large (over 75,000 pounds) + 25 commuter (under 75,000 pounds) flights per day.

LB's Council-adopted 2010 "Strategic Plan" includes in pertinent part: "Expand Long Beach Airport business opportunities, but only within existing noise ordinances."

LBReport.com will continue to monitor this story for our readers.