County approves Moreno Valley Prep sign at Angel Fire Airport pending FAA airspace review

Colfax County commissioners voted Sept. 16 to allow Moreno Valley Preparatory School to install a double-sided digital sign on Angel Fire Airport property pending Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) review. The approval is conditional on an FAA airspace study and on clarifying lighting, maintenance and electrical responsibilities.

The student presenter described a proposed 4-by-8 double-sided LED sign supported by timber posts and a concrete foundation, with an estimated project cost up to about $30,000 if donated materials are not available. County staff and the airport consultant said the location may be within the runway protection or approach area and recommended submitting an FAA airspace study before construction; FAA reviews typically take up to 45 days.

FAA concerns focus on sign lighting and whether an LED message board could shine toward runway approaches and distract pilots. County staff suggested alternatives such as down-directed spotlights on the sign face rather than outward-facing LEDs. Commissioners asked the school to confirm it will pay electric costs and handle long-term maintenance; the presenter and school representative said the school would assume maintenance and electricity expenses.

Decision and next steps: The Commission approved the sign pending FAA approval and the submission of an airspace study, and asked staff to include potential easement language or property-use terms as part of the review. The school was advised that the county would require an FAA determination before any installation occurs and that utility access details (easement/transformer) should be provided.

Speakers and provenance are in the speakers array.