Ware County reviews airport lease, greenlights planning for 73 acres of cleared land

County staff reviewed a proposed land lease for Michael and Vicky Franklin at the Ware County Airport and told commissioners the lease “meets all of our criteria” and is consistent with previous agreements. Staff said the lease would take effect after final approval at the regular meeting.

Commissioners asked detailed questions about the lease map and apron alignment; staff agreed to redraw the map so the leased area runs parallel to an existing concrete apron and to consider minor asphalt work if needed. The lease’s future rent escalation provisions were discussed: one commissioner asked about a scheduled increase beginning in 2030 and staff said they would review the clause with Miss Jody (who prepares leases) and return with a recommended schedule.

Airport staff also requested permission to proceed with a next phase of site preparation on roughly 73 acres the county has cleared, asking to grub and clean the land to make it ready for future hangar or t-hangar placement. Staff said a bid package will be prepared and that they will prioritize local contractors where possible but will expand the search if no local firm can perform the work. Commissioners expressed support for pursuing local bids and for preparing a formal package to bring to the regular meeting for approval.

The airport manager noted a waiting list of approximately 15–20 parties for hangar space and said clearing the site would allow the county to offer additional hangars or t-hangars and reduce future costs by avoiding repeat clearing work. Commissioners asked staff to return with refined maps, a bid package timeline, and proposed lease language for rent escalation before formal action.

The item was carried over to the regular meeting for formal approval of the lease and any related contracting decisions.