The Colorado Aeronautical Board spent a large portion of its Dec. 17 meeting reviewing the state and local grant program for 2026, hearing staff summaries of 21 applications representing 23 projects that in aggregate request roughly $9.5 million in state funds.

Todd from the division's planning team said the state/local program typically pays about 90% of project costs and noted the board will consider approvals for state/local grants at the January meeting after this December review. "This accounts for 21 airports, requests for 23 projects," Todd said as he introduced the slate.

Project types and examples included pavement maintenance (about 43% of requested funds), snow- and airfield‑maintenance equipment, airfield lighting and navigation aids, and fuel projects including both conventional and unleaded infrastructure. Todd highlighted several proposals: a $207,000 snow-removal equipment building at Del Norte; $450,000 for Boulder airfield pavement maintenance; Centennial Airport requests for airfield equipment and a $50,000 design grant for a community observation area; and a multi‑part fuel-farm upgrade at the Colorado Air and Space Port that includes a $334,800 award tied to an unleaded tank.

The board also addressed community concerns about a pending application from Rocky Mountain Metropolitan Airport. Several board members and citizens raised possible conflicts between the airport's grant-certification and recorded easements affecting nearby homeowners. Board member Kevin said he had personal familiarity with easement language affecting many homes and asked the board to consider how to respond. "I have an obligation agreement that is linked that is part of my home title document, as do 3,000 other homes," he said, arguing residents feel there may be limited remedies.

Staff and legal counsel told the board the division requires applicants to certify compliance with applicable easements and grant assurances on the application; the board does not have investigatory powers to adjudicate disputes but can act prospectively (for example, by denying or conditioning grants) and refer potential legal remedies to the Attorney General's office if warranted. One attorney noted the board could warn sponsors, preclude future eligibility, or pursue contractual remedies in the event of clear violations.

Why it matters: State grants fund maintenance and upgrades that keep airports operational and safe. The Rocky Mountain Metro exchange illustrated a recurring tension: the board relies on applicant certifications while community members seek enforceable remedies when they believe easements or agreements have been breached.

Next steps: Staff will present complete application details and formal recommendations at the January meeting; the Rocky Mountain Metro questions will be given an opportunity for a response before votes.

Ending note: The board emphasized that December was a review and information session to ensure members have needed detail before the January consideration and vote.