Cody City Council approves $550K airport lighting upgrade grant

The Cody City Council convened on July 15, 2025, to address several key agenda items, focusing on infrastructure improvements and funding approvals.

The meeting commenced with no public comments, leading directly to the first item of business: the authorization for the mayor to sign a grant for the Yellowstone Regional Airport. The grant, identified as AIP 356-640-048-2025, amounts to $550,837 and is designated for the rehabilitation of Runway 422 lighting. Aaron Buck, the spokesperson for the project, detailed the plan to replace aging high-intensity lights with energy-efficient LED lights, which are expected to reduce maintenance costs and power consumption. Buck noted that the existing lights are approximately 15 years old and have been causing maintenance issues. The project also includes replacing two regulators that are over 20 years old, further enhancing the reliability and efficiency of the lighting system.

The council discussed the timeline for the project, with Buck indicating that the contractor is prepared to start in early fall and aims to complete the work before Christmas. The funding for the local share of the project will come from Passenger Facility Charges (PFC), which are fees collected from passengers flying out of Cody, ensuring no direct costs to taxpayers. The council unanimously approved the motion to authorize the mayor to sign the grant.

Following this, the council moved to item B on the agenda, which involved the approval of Task Force Order Number 1 for a master agreement with Engineering Associates. This agreement pertains to the preliminary engineering and design of a replacement cover for the aerated lagoon at the wastewater treatment facility, with a budget not to exceed $15,000. Philip Bowman, representing the staff, introduced this item, noting its close relation to the subsequent agenda item.

The meeting concluded with a clear focus on enhancing local infrastructure through strategic funding and engineering efforts, reflecting the council's commitment to improving community services and facilities. Further discussions and approvals are anticipated in future meetings as these projects progress.