Board reappoints Marshall Grama to Airport Authority; commissioners seek broader discussion of airport levy and governance

The Stearns County Board reappointed the sitting appointee, Marshall Grama, to the county’s seat on the Airport Authority and discussed broader governance, levy authority and the need for further conversations with partner jurisdictions and the authority board.

Administrators presented five applications and reminded commissioners that, under the Airport Authority’s enabling documents, a current appointee may remain in place until the board acts. Several commissioners said they wanted more in-depth discussion of levy authority, bylaws and whether a county commissioner should serve on the authority. Commissioners also discussed arranging meetings with the Airport Authority and partner counties to clarify fiscal and governance questions before any future changes to appointments or bylaws.

Commissioner Lensmeier moved to reappoint applicant number 5 (the current appointee). The board voted to reappoint the incumbent; the recorded roll call during the discussion showed Commissioners Lensmeier, Clark and Notch voting in favor and Commissioner Bertram opposed. Commissioners asked administration to schedule additional briefings with the Airport Authority and partner counties and to return to the board with options for governance or representation changes.