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FAA flagged maintenance issues at Manila airfield; sheriff, commissioners discuss air‑medical coverage
Summary
FAA inspection noted trees and brush at the east end of Manila runway and other maintenance items. Sheriff reported changes in helicopter availability and commissioners agreed to follow up on FAA items and winter snow‑removal coordination.
Commissioners reviewed recent FAA inspection findings and raised operational concerns for the county’s two airports, with staff describing items that need attention and the sheriff summarizing changes to air‑medical coverage.
An FAA inspection prompted follow‑up work at both Manila and Dutch John airports, including trimming trees and brush at the east end of the Manila runway, replacing the windsock and completing other maintenance tasks to meet FAA recommendations. Staff said the Manila east end includes trees about 15 feet tall and brush that should be cut to reduce safety hazards.
Sheriff’s update: The sheriff reported losing access to a local Classic (air guard) helicopter instrument capability, though other providers including Intermountain Life Flight continue to serve the region. The sheriff said Life Flight is considering a feasibility study about local helicopter basing but noted that, for now, patient transport logistics (moving a patient to an airport) may influence response times.
Operations and winter maintenance: Commissioners discussed which departments will handle snow removal and runway clearing in winter storms (buildings & grounds, road department or water department) and agreed to coordinate with Trevor and buildings & grounds to ensure airports remain serviceable.
Next steps: Staff will follow up on FAA inspection items at both airports and report back to the commission on the status of recommended maintenance and any required compliance work.
