Airport staff briefed the commission on progress toward an approach mitigation plan that will require navigation easements, the uncertain funding picture for pavement rehabilitation, an increase in the annual state maintenance grant, and near‑term facility upgrades and events.

Approach mitigation and easements: Chad said staff and legal counsel are working with property‑owner records to identify ownership, mortgages and other encumbrances for properties that would be affected by navigation easements. He described a phased plan: design, then a multi‑year easement acquisition phase and later tree work and landscaping. Chad described the intent to "create 1 big easement" for contiguous properties where possible and said phase 2 for easement acquisition "could take over a year just to get easements in place." He said staff expect a neighborhood workshop after the holidays to present plans and gather input.

Pavement repair and funding: Staff reported they do not yet have a federal design grant for pavement repair near the T hangars and that existing FAA/state funding streams are limited. Chad said the program lacks sufficient funds at present to do the full estimated $5 million project and that the commission may need to decide how much of the project to undertake when funding availability is clearer.

State maintenance grant increase: Staff noted the annual state aeronautics maintenance allocation rose from about $15,000 historically to $20,000 following lobbying, and that the funds will go toward routine maintenance such as tractor repair and HVAC work. Chad said the state "plays by a different set of rules" and that the increased allocation helps but does not cover larger capital needs.

Facility upgrades and events: Staff said the terminal event/meeting room will be operational with monitors and speakers by October and that the building will support recorded meetings and remote connections. Upcoming events include the Tennessee Aviation Hall of Fame and a tail art show and STEAM fest in October; staff said the facility is already being booked for training and exhibits.

Ending: Staff will continue easement research and appraisal work, seek design grants for pavement rehabilitation and return to the commission with cost estimates and a timeline for easement acquisition and pavement repair.