Riverside County Supervisors Consider Resolution Against Through The Fence Agreements

The Riverside County Board of Supervisors held a significant meeting on August 26, 2025, focusing on the contentious issue of "through the fence" agreements at local airports. These agreements allow access to airport facilities from adjacent properties, which has raised concerns among airport operators and stakeholders regarding compliance with federal regulations and the financial health of airport businesses.

During the meeting, officials discussed the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) guidelines, which discourage such agreements due to the potential risks they pose to airport operations and funding. The FAA emphasizes that allowing commercial entities outside airport property to operate without the same regulatory obligations as on-airport businesses could lead to financial inequities and undermine investments made by airport tenants.

Jim McCool, majority owner of DesertJet at Jackie Cochran Airport, urged the board to pass a resolution prohibiting these agreements. He highlighted his significant investment in airport infrastructure and expressed concerns that competing businesses on non-airport land could unfairly siphon customers away from established airport operations. McCool noted that the uncertainty surrounding these agreements has stalled further investments in airport facilities.

Eric Newman, vice president of Atlantic Aviation, echoed McCool's sentiments, warning that allowing through the fence access could jeopardize the long-term viability of the airport system and threaten federal funding. He emphasized that businesses operating on airport property adhere to strict standards that ensure safety and public benefit, unlike off-airport entities that may not share the same commitments.

Anthony Oshinuga, a professional aviator, also supported the resolution, stating that through the fence operations create an uneven playing field and could compromise the safety and integrity of Riverside County's airports. He called for the board to protect the interests of businesses like DesertJet that contribute to the local economy.

Councilman Steve Sanchez added that the discussion surrounding these agreements has already discouraged future investments in airport infrastructure. He advocated for a collaborative approach that includes all stakeholders to foster growth around the airports while ensuring the protection of existing businesses.

The meeting concluded with a strong recommendation from the board's professional staff to adopt the resolution against through the fence agreements, emphasizing the need to maintain fair competition and protect the financial health of Riverside County's airports. The board's decision on this matter will have significant implications for the future of aviation infrastructure and economic development in the region.