Marquette County commissioners unanimously authorize talks on possible military use of Sawyer Airport

The Marquette County Board of Commissioners on June 16 voted unanimously to adopt a resolution authorizing county representatives to pursue information and discussions with federal officials about the possible recommissioning of Marquette Sawyer Regional Airport, including exploring its suitability for military aviation activities.

The board’s action followed a lengthy public-comment period in which dozens of residents urged the board either to slow the process or to provide more details. John Gumaer of Marquette asked commissioners to table the item because of what he called a lack of transparency. Rowena Langon, a K.I. Sawyer resident, raised concerns about eminent-domain risks and potential displacement of Sawyer households. Several speakers, including Donovan Young, said they feared members of queer and other vulnerable communities who live near Sawyer could be affected. Dozens of others expressed both support and opposition: some said returning activity to Sawyer would restore jobs and attract businesses, while critics cited environmental concerns and the need for clearer public outreach.

Commissioner Alholm moved to open the resolution for discussion and, after commissioner debate and edits prompted by public concerns, the board adopted amended language. The resolution, titled “Marquette Sawyer Regional Airport U.S. Armed Forces Support Resolution,” notes that the county owns and operates the airport, describes the facility’s long runway and federally compatible surrounding land, cites continued military training in the Upper Peninsula (for example, Northern Strike), and authorizes county representatives to enter discussions and obtain information concerning the possible recommissioning of the airport in part as a U.S. National Defense Air Force Base.

The roll-call vote recorded ayes from Commissioner Alholm, Commissioner Numinen, Commissioner Benzie, Commissioner LaLonde, Commissioner Nordeen and Chairperson Joseph Derocha; there were no nays. Commissioners said during the discussion they amended the wording to reflect public concerns and to clarify that the vote authorized discussions and information-gathering rather than any immediate commitment to transfer, sale or operational change.

Supporters at the meeting argued the airport is an underused asset that could bring economic opportunities to Marquette County and the Upper Peninsula. Opponents and many public commenters emphasized the need for more detailed study and community engagement on housing, environmental impacts and the scope of any military proposal. Several commenters requested Sawyer-specific work sessions and clearer public notices before any substantive next steps.

The resolution empowers county representatives to seek information and discuss options with the U.S. Department of Defense; it does not itself authorize any land transfer, redevelopment, construction or compulsory property actions. The board did not adopt any immediate follow-up motion beyond the authorization to enter discussions; members noted that further public outreach and staff reports would be appropriate next steps.

The board later moved into a closed session on a separate statutory matter and scheduled a special meeting for June 26 to hear a GS FOIA appeal. The Sawyer resolution as adopted on June 16 authorizes the county to pursue exploratory discussions only; any formal proposals or required approvals would return to the board for further public consideration.