Airport director seeks to reallocate Jet Center CIP funds to replace three airport signs; council requests RFP and advisory input

Alex Stang, Hutchinson airport director, told council staff had revised the airport approach and recommended reallocating previously budgeted Jet Center architectural and engineering funds toward an airport sign‑replacement project covering three coordinated signs, including an 8‑foot LED sign.

Stang said reallocating the funds allows the airport to advance terminal remodel planning while addressing a visible need at a city gateway. He presented sample sign designs, referenced a purchasing‑cooperative proposal from Lumineo and an LED display from Watchfire Technologies that includes a parts and cellular data connection warranty.

Council members raised procurement and oversight questions: no funds are currently bonded, an RFP had not been issued (the proposal came via a purchasing cooperative), and the airport advisory board had not formally recommended the scope. Several councilors asked staff to issue an RFP to solicit competitive bids and to bring advisory‑board feedback; one councilor asked to table the item for two weeks so the public and the advisory board could weigh in.

Stang agreed to prepare an RFP and return with estimates and advisory‑board input. Council did not adopt a reallocation tonight and directed staff to return with a formal procurement approach and additional cost comparisons.