Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Transportation topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Elko approves six-month SkyWest agreement under DOT grant to support midday flight
Summary
Council approved a six-month transportation services agreement with SkyWest Airlines that carries a maximum liability of $680,700 for the contract period; the DOT SCASDP grant will reimburse 40% and local partners are expected to cover remaining match costs.
Elko City Council approved a six-month transportation services agreement with SkyWest Airlines to underwrite a midday flight between Elko and Salt Lake City through Dec. 31, 2025, as part of the Department of Transportation's Small Community Air Service Development Program (SCASDP).
Staff explained the overall contract maximum liability of $680,700 for the six-month period. The DOT SCASDP grant will reimburse the city for 40% of the contract amount (approximately $272,280); the Flight Alliance of Northeastern Nevada (FAN) and other local partners have agreed to help cover the remaining match. Staff noted that SkyWest funded recent liability for the midday flights in May and June while the city and partners finalized contractual arrangements.
Council members discussed ridership trends (staff reported recent midday flight loads near 50% for June and higher loads on return overnight flights) and praised SkyWest for covering liability in early months. A motion to approve the contract passed by voice vote.
Staff said the city will invoice DOT for the reimbursable portion and coordinate with FAN and regional partners to allocate the local match funding. Councilmembers emphasized the importance of growing local ridership to reduce future subsidy needs.
