Brea : Demonstration Flights Set to Test Copter Noise

To find out whether proposed helicopter flights over Brea and a small portion of Fullerton would disturb residents, Brea Planning Commission members have agreed to hold demonstration flights over the affected areas.

To gauge the effect of the flights that Security Pacific National Bank’s operations center proposes, only one of the flight demonstration dates was announced. At the request of commission member Raymond Wolfert, the city and the bank will arrange for three to five more unannounced flights to see how many residents heard the helicopter.

At a meeting Tuesday night attended by about 150 residents, commission members heard opposition to the proposed helicopter pad at the 275 S. Valencia Ave. bank center from all the speakers except bank officials and a vice president of the Brea Chamber of Commerce.

Security Pacific, which as “the largest employer in the city” has about 1,500 employees, has “proven to be an outstanding asset and has made great contributions to our city,” said Curt Larsen, the chamber’s first vice president. The bank has “positive and absolute support” from the chamber, Larsen said.

Not quite, Brea resident and chamber member Pat Moore said. Moore and other residents who are members of the Chamber of Commerce pointed out that the chamber’s support comes from the board of directors and not necessarily the membership.

Residents complained of potential noise and the devaluation of their homes if the city gives Security Pacific the go-ahead on the helipad, which would transport documents up to 10 times a day during weekdays.

Vince Mestre, a consultant hired by the bank, said the flights would not adversely affect residents of Brea or the Gingerwood area in Fullerton. Mestre questioned the findings of an environmental impact report that stated that 35% of residents in the affected area could experience sleep disruption.

Commission members and residents plan to meet at Morning Glory Street in the Eagle Hills area of Brea at 6:15 p.m. May 28 for the one announced flight. Following the fly-over, the Planning Commission meeting will continue at the Brea-Olinda High School auditorium.