Airport Authority starts to plan for 2021

The Auglaize County Airport Authority began planning to use $ 130,000 in 2021 Federal Aviation Administration dollars for capital improvements with airport consultant Steve Petoczak, who joined board members at their Tuesday evening meeting.

Petozack said one of his priorities was a wildlife hazard study for the airport. “The results of this study is what gets you the money to do the fence,” Petoczak said. “What justifies the fence is deer.”

Petozack said wildlife hazard control will determine where a fence should be best placed. All fences are buried at least 2- 4 feet deep

He suggested eligible projects could include concrete pavement repair. He expected another injection of COVID- 19 funds which could be used for projects.

Petozack suggested incorporating concrete pad repairs into their annual projects. Board member Rick Haines said the board spent about $ 40,000 this year on 100 yards of concrete for repairs.

The new terminal building is nearly complete, except for a drain on the west side of the building. Airport Manager Ted Bergstrom reported they will be seeking equipment for maintenance of the building.

Lease negotiations for Hangar F are ongoing, Board member Brad Smith expressed his frustrations with HKS Aviation not yet accepting the county’s current offer.

The airport authority is reviewing options for housing the Armstrong Learjet over the winter in one of the terminals. Meanwhile, the Armstrong Air and Space museum asked that their rent payment be delayed until December 2021. Bergstrom said the museum still anticipates only renting space for one year.

Hangars F, H, and G will soon all have wifi access in the hangar. Board members are implementing a $ 10 per month fee to cover maintenance and the cost of equipment.

Bookkeeper Mark Howe reported fuel sales were lower than expected and Bergstrom reported two crop duster companies sprayed cover crops in September. Board members discussed budgeting for next year. Bergstrom wanted to stay on the conservative side based on this year's fuel sales trends.