The Crestview City Council voted Monday to approve a memorandum of understanding with Eglin Air Force Base aimed at combating unauthorized drone activity over military installations.
- The council unanimously passed the measure 4-0 during its Feb. 24 meeting, establishing formal cooperation between the Crestview Police Department and the 96th Test Wing in responding to drone incursions.
City Manager Tim Bolduc explained that General Massaro, Eglin’s commander, had been directed by Air Force leadership to establish these agreements with local law enforcement agencies.
“Whenever we have an opportunity to work closely with our surrounding bases, we always try to do that,” Bolduc told the council.
The memorandum creates guidelines for both parties to respond to drone activities that violate restricted airspace. Such incidents have increased in frequency globally and represent violations of both federal and Florida law, according to city officials.
When Councilman Ryan Bullard questioned the agreement’s relevance given Crestview’s distance from the base, the City Attorney clarified that Eglin’s controlled airspace extends over Crestview city limits, making the partnership necessary.
- “It makes sense that if somebody was going to do something, they would do it outside of the immediate area of the Air Force base itself and would probably do it in an adjacent jurisdiction,” Bolduc added.
Under the agreement, the 96th Test Wing will notify Crestview police when assistance is needed with drone incidents. The police department will help detain operators of unauthorized drones and investigate violations. Both parties will participate in training exercises and public education efforts about drone restrictions.
The memorandum does not involve any financial commitment from either party and can be terminated at any time. Police Chief Stephen McCosker had previously reviewed the agreement and recommended its approval.
Hurlburt Field reminds residents of 5-mile ‘no drone zone’
The 1st Special Operations Wing reminds community members that unmanned aircraft systems operations are banned within a 5-mile radius of the military installation due to flight safety concerns.
