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Middleton airport commission asks staff to draft membership requirements for ordinance review
Summary
The Middleton Airport Commission asked staff to draft language for Chapter 2.18 to guide whether appointees should have aviation-related backgrounds, stressing balance between technical knowledge and open community representation.
The Middleton Airport Commission on a voice vote asked staff to draft possible changes to Chapter 2.18 of the city ordinance to clarify whether commissioners should possess specified aviation-related backgrounds.
Chair Lohrman introduced the discussion, saying other city committees include desired professional backgrounds and the council had raised the same question. The commission did not act on an ordinance change but directed staff and the city attorney to prepare redlined language for future review.
Commissioner Tara said she favors having members with aviation or aviation-business backgrounds so the commission can provide informed advice, suggesting at least a majority of seats (a minimum of three of five) have relevant experience. Commissioner Jack and others asked who would adjudicate qualifications; staff and the chair said the mayor nominates and the common council confirms appointments under existing city processes.
Commissioner Schwartz cautioned against using the word "expertise," calling it a loaded term, and recommended drafting a clear definition of what background or involvement would qualify someone. The airport manager, Rich, urged that commissioners have a foundation of aviation knowledge so advice aligns with FAA regulations and grant-assurance obligations; he cited his own long experience to underscore the specialized knowledge needed.
Several commissioners and staff emphasized balance: commissioners with technical backgrounds can reduce wasted time on proposals that conflict with FAA rules, while the city should still leave seats open to community applicants. The commission asked staff to work with the city attorney on draft language and return proposed redlines for further discussion. No ordinance change was voted on at the meeting.
The next step is for staff to produce draft language and circulate it to commissioners for technical review before returning to the commission and, if appropriate, proceeding to common council review and public process.
