I would like to add my voice to the chorus of those who are opposed to permitting a commercial seaplane operation at Carillon Point. While I enjoy watching seaplanes, I am opposed to introducing this level of noise on an hourly basis to our residential neighborhood.

Contrary to the assertions of the seaplane interests, the planes are extremely noisy to anyone within an extended range. Measurements of Cessna 185 model aircraft (proposed for the Carillon Point operation) by a third party seaplane proponent in 2002 (http://www.faegre.org/files/AF-seaplane-noise-2002.pdf) indicate a sound level of over 90 decibels for over 20 seconds per take-off at a range of over 1000 feet (with lesser sound levels for a longer duration). This sound level is similar in intensity to that of a food blender several feet away, and equally unpleasant. These numbers are matched by our experience — we live one-half mile north of Carillon Point on the east side of Lake Washington Blvd, over 150 feet away from the shoreline, and the seaplane take-offs last year (without permit) were sufficiently loud to interrupt conversation if our windows were open. Even the occasional cigarette boat passing by much nearer seems no louder than the seaplane taking off.

Similar seaplane touring opportunities are readily available at both the south and north ends of Lake Washington. Both of these areas are industrial in nature, rather than residential, and thus more appropriate locations for this type of operation.

Mark Taylor, Kirkland