Board debates shade hangars, T‑hangars and a new entry sign; considers using airline advertising funds
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Summary
The board discussed hangar development policy — whether to allow shade hangars or prefer T‑hangars — and agreed to permit shade hangars but to develop formal pricing and policy. Members also explored using airline advertising funds and tourism advertising money to build a larger, wayfinding entry sign, with costs and funding sources to be further defined.
Board members discussed adding a recurring agenda item on non‑FAA hangar construction and debated whether to allow shade hangars (cheaper, sometimes later enclosed) or prefer T‑hangars that typically yield higher revenue.
One board member (S4) said he prefers T‑hangars and voiced caution about allowing others to bring dismantled hangars to reconstruct onsite: “I don't wanna do it,” he said, while acknowledging the board was open to hearing proposals. Other members noted Skydive Moab and an individual hangar project are already in motion, and a triple‑hangar proposal expected a letter of intent.
The board agreed in principle to allow shade hangars but asked staff to develop a policy and pricing structure before formal implementation. Members discussed whether shade hangars should be county‑owned and used for revenue (including solar panels), with one member saying shade hangars could be operated as a county revenue stream if designed for that purpose.
Separately, members advocated improving the airport’s entry signage and wayfinding, proposing to use available advertising funds — including airline advertising dollars — to create a professional entrance monument or digital display to help travelers identify the airport. A board member (S3) argued the entry sign is important for first impressions and suggested a public design contest had worked in the past.
Members acknowledged budget constraints (design estimates previously ranged up to the high tens or hundreds of thousands) and recommended drafting specifications and a budget before soliciting designs or committing funds. Staff will explore funding options and report back at a future meeting.
Why it matters: Hangar policies shape long‑term airport revenue and land use; entry signage affects wayfinding and can be paid for or offset through advertising agreements.
