The board reviewed a Department of Transportation communication indicating that, if a government shutdown continued, subsidy payments for Essential Air Service (EAS/AEAS) could be interrupted and airports and carriers might need to front operating costs until reimbursements resume.

A board member reported receiving a DOT letter saying the subsidy program could run out of money by the weekend and that the DOT told the airport if the government remained shut down as of the 12th it could not continue funding EAS subsidies. The same board member said he contacted Ben Munson at Contour and county administrators to discuss options.

Board staff said Contour, the county and the airport had agreed to share risk and "not stop flying" during the subsidy interruption. "As soon as we got that letter… I called Ben Munson at Contour… because that money will be reimbursed. So if the airline flies and makes no money, but they keep flying, they'll be reimbursed for the flying they did when it was shut down," a staff member said. The board discussed short-term arrangements where the airport and county would advance funds and share the cost burden until federal payments resume.

Board members expressed concern about operational impacts if the shutdown continued and noted early signs of disruption when some air traffic controllers called out. Staff said they will work with the county and carrier to preserve uninterrupted service and will report updates.

No formal vote was taken. The board asked staff to continue coordination with Contour and county officials and to report back to the board on any changes to service or cost-sharing arrangements.