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Hurricane airport board weighs tighter gate access, on-site directory and security review
Summary
The Hurricane City Airport Board discussed restricting gate codes, adding an on-site contact directory for businesses inside the gate and seeking FAA/TSA guidance on perimeter security and responsibilities; board members said they will pursue options including a keypad, card reader or signage and bring proposals back to the board.
The Hurricane City Airport Board discussed tightening gate access and creating a simple on-site contact directory for businesses inside the airport gate, and agreed to seek guidance from the Federal Aviation Administration and Transportation Security Administration on security responsibilities.
Board members said they have been seeing new delivery drivers and other visitors without prior access codes, creating continuing questions about who should hold the gate code and how to limit liability for businesses and city staff. Airport manager Dave Houston said staff will tell employees not to give the gate code to outsiders and to escort new visitors to their destination.
Several board members proposed placing a laminated panel with the names and phone numbers of the four businesses located inside the gate on or near the keypad so unfamiliar delivery drivers can contact the tenant directly rather than leaving packages unattended. The board agreed any listing on the gate should be done with the businesses' permission.
The board also discussed longer-term technical options for controlling access. Mike (board member) said a keypad-only solution may be appropriate for a small noncommercial airport and would be less expensive than a card/badge system. Board members noted badge and re‑training programs like those at larger commercial airports are costly and not necessarily required here.
Members asked staff to contact the FAA and TSA to confirm the city's responsibilities for perimeter security given the airport has no scheduled commercial flights. Carrie (staff) was asked to place an item on next month’s agenda so the board can consider proposed code changes or equipment additions once federal guidance is received.
The meeting also covered related operational steps: printing a small laminated gate-contact sheet for businesses that want it, ensuring staff do not provide the gate code indiscriminately, and considering a future permanent sign listing tenant businesses and contact numbers.
The board did not adopt a new rule at the meeting; instead it directed staff to gather FAA/TSA guidance and to return with cost estimates and a recommended approach.
