The Airport Commission acknowledged the selection committee's recommendation after presentations from four firms and voted to proceed with Barge as the city’s airport consultant, with staff to finalize contract terms and submit the agreement to state review for fee comparison.

Staff said four statements of qualifications were received; the selection committee interviewed Barge and Michael Baker and held detailed Q&A sessions. Committee members praised both firms’ presentations and highlighted specific staff additions at Barge, including personnel who helped resolve environmental issues the airport faced.

The commission moved to continue with Barge and recorded a roll call vote with commissioners answering in the affirmative. Staff said Barge’s current contract runs through January 2026 and that existing work authorizations will persist while transition and contract negotiations continue. The contract will then go before the Airport Commission and City Council for final approval after state review.

Next steps: staff will review the contract submitted by Barge, coordinate the state fee-comparison review, and return to the commission and city council as required for formal contract adoption.