Originally published in the Yellowstone County News print edition of 4/1/16.
BILLINGS — In a split vote, Yellowstone County Commissioners have approved a highly controversial zone change request – one that will allow a 50-year old family-owned helicopter business in Yellowstone County to continue to grow next to the Billings Airport.
The decision came after almost 40 citizens testified during a two and a half hour public hearing in a standing-room-only commissioners’ board room.
Billings Flying Service, owned by Al and Gary Blain, has been operating at 6309 Jellison Road, south of Billings, along the Yellowstone River since the company was started by the Blains’ father, Gerhardt. The acquisition over the past few years of seven Chinook helicopters has launched the business into a new realm of fast paced-growth, one that has brought them international recognition and an opportunity to add considerably to the diversity of the local economy.
In seeking more space, the most logical place to locate, say the Blains, is near the Logan International Airport, more specifically on acreage west of the airport along Highway 3.
But residents of a high-end residential area – Sky Ranch Subdivision – disagreed, as did residents of other areas above and below the Rims that parallel the airport and Highway 3. Those testifying voiced concerns about potential noise from the helicopters, but most of all they opposed the change to “controlled industrial” because of what it might mean to the future of the area. There is no commercial or industrial uses allowed along Highway 3 under current zoning, and they did not want that to change for fear of marring what is otherwise a “pleasant and welcoming entryway” to Billings, one with “with breathtaking views.”
The Blains want to expand on read more
