MAILBAG:

Dear Newport Beach council members:

Thank you for serving on the council. It’s a 24/7 job that requires total commitment. We do appreciate your hard work.

In terms of priorities for Newport Beach, I have three words — “Contain John Wayne.” This should be a major focus for the city in 2009.

I don’t need to tell you how this airport expansion is a threat and can ruin Newport Beach. Air pollution, noise, traffic, congestion etc. all minimize the quality of life we have in Newport Beach.

This is a leadership opportunity for Newport Beach. City Manager Homer Bludau should own this, coordinate our resources and keep the residents informed with a monthly webcast.

I don’t know who “airport officials” and “the county” are, but I do know who my council members are, and what their job is. If this goes badly, who cares about the other citywide priorities?

This airport has one runway, one short runway. What is “the county” really planning and who is advocating for Newport Beach residents? Does Orange County really need more commuter air service and international carriers?

Our house is in the flight path — our choice. For us, the advantages outweigh the plane noise.

My husband uses John Wayne three times a month. He prefers John Wayne. John Wayne is our friend. We just don’t want to “super size” it at the expense of Newport Beach and surrounding towns.

A good example of supersizing gone badly is Fashion Island. The total footprint of this once pleasant, outdoor gathering area is forever altered. It’s now a congested, mini South Coast Plaza. New buildings, new parking structures and narrow vehicular entrances and exits replace what was a nice fit for the site and area.

Thank you again for all you do in a difficult environment. It is truly appreciated. Please consider making airport control and containment job No. 1 in 2009.

We don’t have a choice; the $652-million project is under way. We can only hope to contain it.

JEANNE BARAN