Chickasha council authorizes six-month lease for fuel truck as airport 'proof of concept'; grant could cover half the cost

The Chickasha City Council authorized the mayor to sign a six-month lease with ASAP Energy Inc. for aviation fueling equipment to be used at the Chickasha Municipal Airport, approving a proof-of-concept arrangement intended to test staffing, fuel flows and operational demand before pursuing a full purchase.

Edward, speaking for airport staff, said the lease lets the city "try it out" without committing to a purchase and described the lease as a way to collect usage data and posture the airport for growth. He told the council the airport is pursuing an ODAA grant expected to cover roughly half of the estimated $350,000 cost of a new fuel truck (about $175,000 if awarded), but said grant approval typically comes late in the process and the lease allows the city to evaluate needs before applying.

Council members pressed the staff on lease-vs-buy economics, vehicle condition and reliability; staff cautioned that leased trucks could be out of service for some months if they fail and that the lease terms differ from a straight purchase. Edward said Jet A fuel activity and demand at the airport have increased and that a mobile fuel truck would help accommodate transient jet traffic and events, noting a reported 30% increase in Jet A profit margin compared with prior years.

Council also flagged a potential date error in the contract materials (a commencement date that should likely read 2026) and asked staff to correct the lease exhibits before final execution. The motion was approved by roll call with unanimous support.