Airport staff presented proposed changes to Tyler City Code chapter 12 and the City Council approved the changes on Aug. 13.

Why it matters: The airport operates under a self-sufficiency expectation, and staff said modest rate increases will help cover operating and maintenance costs while keeping the airport competitive with comparable facilities.

What staff proposed: The airport director asked the council to increase two land-lease tiers (currently 6.5¢ and 9¢ per square foot per year) by 1¢ per square foot per year; staff estimated that change would net about $19,000 annually. He also proposed raising the fuel flow fee from 6¢ per gallon to 8¢ per gallon (projected revenue gain about $25,000) and increasing the daily maximum in the long-term commercial lot from $7 to $8 (projected gain about $48,000). The director noted current fuel prices make a 2¢-per-gallon increase unlikely to be noticeable to customers.

Council action: The Council approved a motion to adopt the ordinance amending Tyler City Code chapter 12 as described (motion by Councilmember Hawkins; second by Councilmember Wynn). The motion passed by voice vote.

Other discussion: Councilmembers asked about available property for lease at the airport. The director said the airport is negotiating a possible lease for up to 30 acres from a previous RFP and that existing hangar space is essentially full, noting frequent inquiries from prospective tenants.

Next steps: Staff will implement the revised fee schedule and the city attorney will finalize ordinance language consistent with the council vote.