Longmont council votes to dissolve airport advisory board, citing need to reset governance

Longmont City Council voted 5-2 March 24 to adopt an ordinance dissolving the Airport Advisory Board, a contentious move Council members said was intended to reset governance and let council take a more active role while it evaluates future structures.

Mayor Pro Tem McCoy moved the ordinance, which passed with Council members Marcin, Popkin, Kolkhofer and Mayor Pro Tem McCoy voting in favor and Council members Krist and Prieto opposed. Council supporters described the action as a pause to rethink how the airport is governed and to ensure council provides clearer direction; opponents said dissolving the board removes a source of technical expertise and volunteer engagement the city needs.

Public comment included pilots, hangar owners and airport volunteers who urged council to engage the aviation community and to avoid hasty decisions. Speakers emphasized the airport's community programs, pilot training, youth engagement and the potential consequences of losing experienced volunteers.

Council members said they plan a thorough retreat and follow-up discussion to craft a new governance model that could include a reconstituted advisory board, revised application process, or an airport authority. Several councilors asked staff to return with a concrete timeline and a plan for returning governance to the community.

What happens next: The ordinance will be implemented per its schedule; staff and council said they will discuss governance options at an upcoming council retreat and present a path forward before second reading or future action.