Airport noise subject of Capitol hearing tonight

Residents who live near Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport could hear their complaints about airplane noise discussed at a legislative hearing tonight.

During the 7 p.m. hearing, state legislators will discuss three bills that focus on airplane noise. One would eliminate the Metropolitan Airports Commission's Noise Oversight Committee, which is made up of local elected officials and representatives from the airline industry.

State Rep. Scott Dibble, who sponsored the bills, said like to see the committee replaced with a more inclusive group made up of local residents. He said he has heard from thousands of constituents about airport issues.

"I don't think I've gotten more emails on one subject than this -- even at the height of our Twins stadium and Vikings stadium debates where I heard from a lot of folks," said Dibble, DFL-Minneapolis. "I would say the level of constituent engagement around this has been much, much higher."

MAC spokesman Patrick Hogan said the Noise Oversight Committee has been very effective. He said eliminating it would be a step backward.