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Airport manager reports PAPI troubles, fuel sales trends and new grant applications
Summary
During the airport meeting the manager reported on reduced jet‑A sales, improved 100LL sales, persistent PAPI light failures with possible LED replacements, and plans to apply for state airport grants (May 1 deadline) for ramp repairs, equipment and terminal projects.
At the meeting moved into the airport advisory session, airport manager Dennis briefed the board on operations, maintenance and grant planning. He reported lower jet‑A sales year‑to‑date compared with last year, while 100LL (low‑lead avgas) sales were about 1,300 gallons ahead of the prior year and transactions were up about 48.
Dennis described ongoing problems with the PAPI (precision approach path indicator) lights at runway ends: circuit boards had been sent for testing and some repairs were made, but bulbs continued to burn out. He said LED PAPI replacements are now available and the airport team will evaluate whether to replace the aging equipment.
He noted the state of Michigan had announced roughly $5 million in airport funding with four categories for grants and that the airport planned to submit applications by the May 1 deadline, including requests for ramp crack repairs and equipment such as a tractor and brush hog. Dennis said a prior taxiway project was delayed because funding arrived too late for last year’s construction window; staff are reworking schedules and bids for an August target date.
Dennis also described recent drainage/flooding issues at the airport (grates and county drains requiring frequent clearing) and work to secure jet‑A supplies at a higher market price. He said some hangar leases and taxiway construction documents were ready for signature and recommended moving ahead with grant applications.
