The commission sought approval for the main apron reconstruction, which is a notable development as it comes at no cost to the airport or the city. This project is anticipated to have a substantial impact on the airport’s capacity and efficiency. Additionally, the topic of an 18b survey was addressed, with an estimated city share of $4,500. The importance of this survey lies in its role in future planning and development at the airport.

Another point of discussion was the forecast submission to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for formal approval. Members of the commission underscored the necessity for comprehensive record-keeping and data maintenance. There was debate over the availability of data, particularly concerning fuel sales and operational counts, and the need for an updated guard system to gather more accurate data for future planning. The commission agreed to resubmit the amended forecast to the FAA and forward chapter five for review.

The weight of a Skyhawk aircraft and the accuracy of the FAA’s database were also debated, highlighting the attention to detail required in aviation record-keeping. Additionally, the meeting covered the critical task of identifying and removing obstructions on the airport’s approach surface. Concerns about the accuracy of existing obstruction information from the 2008 master plan prompted the commission to discuss the need for a new survey.

The issue of maintaining runway pavements and navigational aids was discussed, alongside the potential installation of a weather observing system and the replacement of aging taxi lanes. The commission considered acquiring additional property around the airport, for both aeronautical and non-aeronautical use, to prevent non-aeronautical development that could impact the surrounding area. The potential expansion of the airport to accommodate future commercial operations, such as vertical takeoff aircraft, was also on the agenda. This expansion would have implications for neighboring properties and the community, which the commission weighed carefully.

The impact of neighboring properties on existing businesses was a concern, with discussions on trash and dilapidated structures affecting the airport’s environment. There were also discussions about the potential expansion of the airport and the implications for neighboring properties, as well as the need to consider future aeronautical developments and the impact on the surrounding community.

In terms of operations and maintenance, the commission addressed the need to protect the airport from potential hazards, including unsupervised children and wildlife. Ongoing maintenance and repair work, such as grass maintenance and the replacement of wooden trim on windows, were on the docket. The high electric bill for the Vault building was raised, with concerns about increased rates from the utilities.

The commission deliberated on the lease of a tenant, weighing the option to renew the lease or seek a new tenant. The potential for attracting new tenants, including flight schools and community colleges, was discussed. The need to update the standard operation procedures book for the airport, which had not been revised for several years, was also noted.