Port updates airport systems and readies air show; staff recognized for outreach

Port staff updated the board on airport operations and event planning. Airport technicians restored pilot‑controlled lighting (PCL) after a wiring/capacitor issue was identified and fixed by a local electrical contractor, avoiding a far more costly wiring replacement. Staff said the repair restored the ability for pilots to activate runway and taxi lighting as needed.

Staff also reviewed air show plans for July 12–13, reporting vendor, parking and display arrangements and noting prior attendance of about 5,000 over a weekend; staff said they expect similar or larger crowds. "Last year we had about 5,000 people in attendance over the weekend," a staff member said, and the port is coordinating parking, vendors and safety functions; the port expects to subsidize only staff time and limited overhead.

Separately, the board recognized long‑serving staff: Chris Johnson reached 36 years with the port and Eric (marketing/communications) marked three years; the communications coordinator was credited with increasing community engagement for an airport feasibility study from an expected 750–1,000 responses to about 2,700 respondents through active outreach.

What happens next: Airport staff will finalize logistics for the air show and continue technical maintenance of runway systems; the board acknowledged staff contributions to outreach and operational readiness.