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Ravalli commissioners interview two candidates for airport manager; no hire yet
Summary
The Board of County Commissioners interviewed two finalists for the Stevensville airport manager post — Tim Smead and Jim Vandertuk — and heard about candidates' aviation, maintenance and grant experience; commissioners said they expect to make a hiring decision after additional interviews and reference checks.
The Ravalli County Board of County Commissioners on June 9 interviewed two finalists for the Stevensville airport manager position but took no immediate personnel action.
The board first interviewed Tim Smead, who described more than 20 years of experience in general aviation and fixed‑base operator (FBO) services, management of airport grounds and fuel‑handling incidents, and part‑time work as Stevensville airport manager. Smead said he has experience with FBO operations, budgeting at several facilities and with FAA and state aviation contacts. He told commissioners he prioritizes safety and preplanning for seasonal maintenance; he described past work with FAA staff (he named Diane Stilson) and with airport master planning. On stormwater and spill response, Smead said he has experience with hazmat containment and incident reporting and described participation in a large airline fuel cleanup.
The board later interviewed Jim Vandertuk, who described a career in facilities and ground operations including three years at a Spectrum Jet Center fueling operation and later facility‑management roles for multiple employers. Vandertuk said he has extensive experience with grounds maintenance, plowing, equipment repair and work in adverse weather. He said he is available 24/7 and has managed scopes of work, procurement and coordination with contractors.
Both candidates discussed the airport's upcoming apron and helipad project, relationships with the airport advisory board, on‑call expectations and strategies for coordinating with external engineers and FAA/state officials on grant‑funded projects. Smead and Vandertuk each said they would respond to critical incidents, including aircraft accidents, by contacting commissioners and emergency responders, posting NOTAMs and shutting the airport if required.
No hires or votes occurred during the June 9 meeting; commissioners said multiple interviews remain scheduled and that a hiring decision is expected about two weeks after the interview series is complete. Commissioners also discussed temporary staffing to reduce overtime pressures on a single manager and noted the need for clear on‑call compensation and equipment storage at the airport.
