Airport Planner Jacklyn Marks reported that the 18B survey from Blue Sky had been submitted to the FAA for the 17C and 18B plans. Approval of the imagery submission is expected by the end of January, after which the final survey report will be submitted. Additionally, a draft of Chapter 7 of the master plan, including the schedule of improvements and the airport layout plan, has been sent to the FAA. Comments on these documents are due by January 14. The commission aims to finalize the scope of work for the environmental assessment and obstruction analysis in February.

Moreover, the meeting addressed the Gardner Airport’s Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP). Although a notice of intent is required, the commission must appoint a representative to manage the process, as their current consultant, Gail, cannot fulfill this role. There was also discussion about the FAA grant application project, which has a submission deadline of March 3.

A significant portion of the meeting centered around discussions on operational expenses and financial transparency. Members expressed a desire for detailed monthly expenditure reports, including costs related to equipment, fuel, heating, and other operational expenses. Despite some debate on whether the airport commission should operate like a business, it was emphasized that transparency in budgeting is necessary for effective management.

In less formal discussions, issues such as the ongoing repair of airport trucks and the challenge of replacing outdated alarm systems with commercial-grade components were touched upon. The commission is also considering ways to accurately track airport traffic volume, potentially using alternative methods to traditional systems.