As the COVID-19 pandemic wears off the minds of more and more people, "Does Ocala Airport require commercial airline service?" debate amongst the residents of Marion County is growing hotter than ever.
Readers of Ocala-News on both sides of the issue recently wrote letters to the publication's editors, which the publication then compiled together and published last month.
Those in favor of adding commercial airline services to OCF pointed to the growing Marion County community, the inconvenience of having to drive nearly two hours to Orlando, and the high cost of fuel now associated with that drive. These points weren't disputed by those against adding commercial airline services to Ocala's OCF Airport, but those opposed to the move pointed to the potential of increased taxes and the natural peace of the community being disturbed by the roaring jet engines.
Perhaps it was Ocala resident Santos Ruiz who encapsulated both arguments best. “I understand both opinions," Ruiz said. "But I know that Ocala is in a growing phase right now, and eventually the airport is going to be needed for tourists, families, and businesses. Many people, as you have seen, are already coming here to do business. Let’s face it, when people from all over the United States are coming to retire in Florida, new opportunities will arise. This point about ‘let’s leave Ocala the way it is’ is a great idea, but as we continually keep growing, many needs are coming along the way. New business will be coming along with the construction of new buildings and houses."
Added Ruiz, "All of this will eventually be coming and it is unstoppable."
