03 02 2023 AIRPORT AUTHORITY

- The board could not take formal action because there was no quorum, so no decisions or approvals were made at this meeting. Minutes were deferred to the next meeting. - The biggest discussion was the future of the historic airport tower. Board members and public commenters expressed strong support for preserving it and exploring reuse as an observation tower and possible museum space. - A plan was set in motion to pursue historic registry status for the tower. The board agreed to send a transmittal letter with the already prepared application materials, which could open up additional preservation funding sources. - Staff reported that the tower proposal would likely be handled through a nonprofit 501(c)(3) entity that already exists and could receive donations, helping separate liability from the airport authority and city/county. - The fuel farm replacement was identified as a major urgent issue, with rough costs estimated at $1.5 million to $2 million. The board advised staff to apply for RAPS funds for $500,000, use a phased approach, and cover the immediate FAA-required shutoff valve from the current budget. - Related to the fuel farm, staff noted a June FAA deadline for an automatic shutoff device and environmental concerns because the tanks are old and located near a wetland. The application deadline for the RAPS grant was the following day, so staff was urged to submit it. - The manager also gave updates on winter snow removal challenges and runway/taxiway paint damage, saying those maintenance issues would need to be raised with the state as part of upcoming preservation work. - A separate update covered hangar development and Taxiway India, with staff creating waiting lists for two available hangar spots and for open taxiway locations. Letters from the interested parties were expected soon. - Staff presented airport economic impact and aviation appreciation materials, highlighting that Logan is the second-busiest airport in Utah and generates significant payroll, spending, and tax revenue. The board discussed asking the mayor to recognize March as Aviation Appreciation Month at a city council meeting. - Another major item was the Union Pacific lease negotiation for airport fence property. Staff said Union Pacific’s new ask of about $61,000 per year was far above the prior lease, and the airport countered with a proposal of $10,000 for 20 years, arguing the land has limited development value and the fence is essential. - The board also heard a public presentation from Scott Hunsaker, who strongly advocated preserving the tower as an observation site and community aviation landmark. He stressed the airport’s World War II history and said he was willing to help with preservation efforts.