The City Council spent a large portion of its Nov. 17 workshop interviewing applicants to fill two upcoming openings on the Naples Airport Authority. Candidates from business aviation, planning and local industry outlined varied approaches to persistent disputes over noise, growth and airport governance.

John Allen, a former commissioner and frequent airport volunteer, told the council he would push for a strategic, evidence‑driven approach to noise mitigation that balances safety, airport financial sustainability and neighborhoods. “I think the Naples Airport Authority needs an experienced, impartial, independent voice for all of the city in Naples and the users of the airport,” Allen said during his opening remarks.

Other applicants proposed a mix of near‑term and long‑term steps: expanding the airport’s noise compatibility and flight‑path work (higher/steeper arrival profiles), exploring metering and slot management on peak days, and seeking stage‑3 engine restrictions as a longer‑term objective. Several candidates said they would review FAA grant assurances carefully before accepting money that could limit local options; others argued grants are essential to fund runway, lighting and resiliency work.

Safety and community relations were recurring themes. Candidates urged better and more frequent communication with residents, clearer documentation on the airport’s utilization plan and a coordinated strategy between the council and the Authority. Several said targeted programs — such as insulating homes along the loudest approach corridors and pursuing higher altitudes on arrival — could produce visible relief for affected residents without breaching federal preemption.

Next steps: The council did not appoint candidates at the workshop; interviews will continue and appointments are expected at a future meeting. Council members said they want the Authority to present clearer, implementable items from the Part‑150 recommendations and for both bodies to schedule regular joint reviews of airport strategy and budget.