Committee weighs $175,000 tractor and other snow‑removal options after heavy snow season

The Airport Advisory Committee on Feb. 3 discussed new snow‑removal needs after heavier snowfall this season and operational limits in clearing a taxilane and a new hangar area.

Shane McDougall said the present layout and grade make it hard to plow a lane wide enough for aircraft wing clearance and recommended buying a 125‑horsepower tractor with a front brush and rear blower to move snow far enough to avoid berm build‑up. Shane estimated the tractor package would cost about $175,000 and said the airport has funds for the local match; he indicated the standard match would likely be small (committee notes: 'probably 2.5%').

Bob Chieffo, Airport Manager Pete Lehmann, Secretary Ronald Rosenfeld, Daryl Wurster and Vice‑Chair Victoria Ganz spoke in favor of acquiring extra SRE to support a multiyear apron development project. Shane said the purchase would probably need to meet Buy American requirements and urged quick action if the committee wants equipment this year; he said an extra meeting may be required to finalize eligibility and timing.

Why it matters: The recommended equipment would reduce repeated operational constraints, limit snow berms that restrict taxiing, and provide additional summer capability (washing/brush). The committee did not yet approve a purchase; members asked staff to research procurement options, eligibility for funding, and timing.

Next steps: Shane and Chris Krohn will research options and eligibility; staff may call an additional meeting to act before the end of the funding cycle.