Airport issue debated in Gwinnett County

LAWRENCEVILLE - Hundreds of people turned up in Lawrenceville to take part in a debate on whether Gwinnett County's airport should go private.

About 800 people attended a county Board of Commissioners meeting Thursday night. A major issue in the debate is whether commissioners should rule out large commercial flights as they consider whether to sell or lease the airport.

Opponents say they fear big commercial flights would increase noise, drive down property values and erode their quality of life. They played a recording of what they said a 737 would sound like over their homes.

Those who favor the plan say commercial passenger service could create jobs and boost the county's economy. They say they want commissioners to keep all options open.

Commissioners plan to vote on the issue Tuesday.