Wednesday, May 8, 2002

Model rockets free to fly in PTC after council denies ordinance By JOHN MUNFORD jmunford@TheCitizenNews.com An ordinance to regulate the use of model rockets in Peachtree City didn't make it off the launching pad at Thursday night's City Council meeting. The ordinance, which was suggested by fire department officials who studied national guidelines on the issue, was voted down unanimously. It contained a number of technical provisions relating to the specifications of equipment used on model rockets, but that wasn't the main sticking point. The ordinance also limited model rockets to being launched from just three areas in town: Meade Field, the Braelinn recreation area and the baseball/soccer complex on Ga. Highway 74. But Bill Lechard of The Hobby Stop, which sells model rocket equipment, protested that measure, saying two of those locations are busy all the time with athletic events. "I think that's over-governing and over-restrictive," Lechard said. "Let common sense prevail unless it becomes a problem." City Manager Jim Basinger said he was unaware of any complaints from residents relating to model rocket launches. Council agreed, voting unanimously to deny the proposed ordinance. What do you think of this story? Click here to send a message to the editor. Back to the News Home Page| Back to the top of the page