Clinton council approves $58,860 to rehabilitate airport building for aviation education

The Clinton City Council on a unanimous vote approved a $58,860 city contribution to rehabilitate a city-owned building at the municipal airport for use as an aviation education facility.

Airport Commissioner Trevor Dawson told the council the work consists of two projects: interior renovations to return the building to safe, usable condition and related tarmac, access and site improvements. Dawson said the projects are largely grant-funded and would support a deferred lease with Clinton High School and a North Arkansas College aviation program. "This is not a loan," Dawson said. "Its a city contribution to support completion of project one and project two at the city municipal airport." He described grant matches and airport funds covering most costs and said the requested city share would be paid from previous-year revenue.

According to the materials read at the meeting, project one is largely financed by state grant funds and airport funds, and project two carries a state grant that covers most of the work; the combined city request was stated as $58,860. Council members said the project would create workforce development opportunities locally. One council member argued the investment could produce future revenue as trained workers and potential businesses locate in the area.

The resolution (listed in the packet) directs city officials and the airport commission to execute necessary documents and coordinate with state and federal agencies to complete the improvements. The motion to approve the resolution was made, seconded and passed by roll-call vote (Barnes, Hastings, Pistol, Ward, Williams voting yes). No member recorded an opposing vote.

Next steps include executing grant paperwork, finalizing bids and starting the scoped rehabilitation and site work once state grant approvals and contract documents are in place.