During a recent council meeting, officials discussed significant steps aimed at enhancing the financial sustainability of the local airport, which has struggled to generate sufficient revenue to cover its operational costs. The council voted on the rental of hangar space and the construction of additional hangars as part of a broader strategy to make the airport self-sustaining.

The airport operates as an enterprise fund, meaning it is expected to be financially independent. However, it has not achieved this goal for several years. To address this, the city aims to increase enplanements—the number of passengers boarding flights—to 10,000 annually. Achieving this target would unlock $1 million in federal capital funding, which could be used to support airport operations and infrastructure improvements.

In addition to the hangar rentals and construction plans, the council is working with a consultant specializing in Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issues. This partnership includes a planned trip to Washington, D.C., to engage with congressional staff, with the dual objectives of securing new funding and ensuring the continuation of existing financial support.

If successful in obtaining all available funding, the airport could access up to $40 million, which would significantly contribute to completing a runway extension project. The council remains optimistic about these initiatives, hoping they will lead to a more sustainable future for the airport.