Sun Sep 15 14:09:42 UTC 2024: ## Monroe’s First Air Field Faces Demolition to Make Way for Energy Offices
**Monroe, WA – September 12, 2024** – Monroe’s First Air Field, a beloved 36-acre property housing six large hangars and a runway, is set to be demolished after its sale to the Snohomish County Public Utility District. The airfield has been a cornerstone of the city’s aviation community since 1967, offering a unique and welcoming space for pilots and enthusiasts alike.
Former owner Daryl Habich, who acquired the airfield in 1977, transformed it into a community staple, even running his dental clinic on-site. His legacy of fostering a sense of belonging at the airfield is deeply ingrained in the community.
However, the Habich family has entered into negotiations to sell the property to the Snohomish County Public Utility District, despite the community’s strong opposition. The $7 million transaction will see the airfield replaced with a nearly 60,000-square-foot office building, warehouses, and storage units.
Snohomish County officials justify the decision by citing skyrocketing demand for energy as people seek cheaper housing outside Seattle. They argue that while the airfield serves the community, the energy facilities will provide a greater public good.
This decision has sparked outrage among local pilots and residents who view the airfield as a vital part of their community. They worry about losing a valuable resource and a place where everyone feels welcome.
The Habich family has declined to comment on the sale. The transaction is currently underway, though a definitive timeline for its completion remains unclear.
First Piper 