Local airport tenant says certified letter arrived after FAA deadline; council clarifies access rules

Niles Banzares, who identified himself as a River Road resident and airport tenant, told the Lock Haven City Council that he received a certified letter about a through-the-fence access agreement after the June 30 deadline and said he needed more time to review and possibly consult his attorney before signing.

Banzares said he had corresponded with city officials and the FAA earlier in the process and that he only received the certified notice on July 3. He asked the council for additional time to review changes to the proposed contract, which he said appeared to differ from an earlier version that had been discussed with the FAA.

City staff responded that the FAA requires the city to report by July 14 which tenants have entered into through-the-fence agreements; those without signed agreements by that date would not have access until they sign. Staff also said the FAA had approved the construction safety and phasing plan for the fencing and gate project and that the city has a grant available to fund fencing work.

One city official reiterated that tenants could sign later and seek to challenge terms afterward, but that access would be withheld until a tenant had a signed agreement on file. Another staff member reiterated that legal questions could be addressed to an individual's private solicitor or to the city solicitor but cautioned that the city's solicitor is paid by taxpayers and that private counsel may streamline technical inquiries.

No formal action was taken; the exchange was recorded during the public-comment and subsequent staff update portion of the agenda.