Pasco Airport to secure daily flights to Salt Lake City and expands travel options

The Franklin County Board of County Commissioners convened on March 26, 2025, to discuss various topics impacting the community, including air travel, local events, and regulatory issues.

The meeting began with an update on air travel at Pasco Airport, where Commissioner Mullen reported a 12% increase in passenger traffic over the past few months. He highlighted the potential for new flights, including a daily service to Salt Lake City and the possibility of a direct flight to Dallas Fort Worth by 2027. The airport has also added a new checkpoint to accommodate the growing number of flights, urging travelers to arrive 90 minutes early.

Commissioner Mullen also announced that the Ironman event will return for its third weekend in September, with volunteers currently being recruited. He noted that the swim portion of the event was rated as the second best in North America.

In a separate discussion, Mullen expressed concerns regarding more stringent septic system regulations proposed by the local health department, which he and Commissioner Didier opposed. He suggested that Franklin County may need to consider establishing its own health board due to ongoing disagreements with Benton County's Board of Health.

The commissioners addressed issues related to the Hanford nuclear site, emphasizing the need for action on waste management. Mullen criticized delays in processing waste through the vitrification plant and called for increased pressure on state and federal agencies to expedite the process.

The meeting also touched on workforce development funding cuts, with Mullen noting an $8 million reduction affecting various federal departments. He reiterated his belief in streamlining government operations to better serve the community.

Additionally, Mullen reported on the HAPO Center's success in booking events, indicating a rise in community engagement. He also raised concerns about the impact of wolf populations on local ranchers and the economic effects of tariffs on farmers, particularly regarding hay prices.

The discussion concluded with a focus on public transportation costs, with Mullen highlighting a significant increase in operating costs per passenger for local bus services. He called for a review of transit operations to ensure efficiency and better utilization of resources.

The meeting wrapped up with public comments, where community members echoed concerns about transit services and proposed alternative transportation solutions for veterans. The commissioners acknowledged these comments and expressed a commitment to addressing the issues raised.