Grand County's Budget Advisory Board convened on October 3, 2025, to discuss critical budgetary matters, including the upcoming 2026 budget for the Canyonlands Regional Airport. A key focus of the meeting was the need for increased staffing and improved financial tracking at the airport, as highlighted by Airport Director Steve Gleason.

Gleason emphasized the necessity of hiring a full-time operations coordinator, a requirement set by the FAA, which will lead to an increase in salary expenses. Additionally, he proposed making the current administrative assistant position full-time to enhance operational efficiency. The board recognized that the airport's revenue from leases has significantly declined over the past few years, prompting a forensic audit of airport finances to identify the root causes of this downturn.

The discussion also touched on the importance of including overtime in the budget, as the airport's operations often require additional staffing due to flight delays. Gleason conservatively estimated overtime costs at $1.2 million, acknowledging that the airport's current budget did not account for this essential expense.

In a procedural matter, the board unanimously agreed to postpone the approval of previous meeting minutes until the next session, ensuring that all discussions, particularly regarding optional tax, are accurately reflected.

The meeting underscored the airport's financial challenges and the need for strategic adjustments to ensure compliance with FAA standards and improve service delivery. As the board prepares for the next meeting, the implications of these discussions will be crucial for the airport's operational future and overall budget health.