Harrison council approves 12‑month lease for helicopter base at municipal airport

The Town of Harrison council voted unanimously April 1 to approve a lease that will allow an air‑ambulance operator to establish a helipad and related temporary facilities at the municipal airport.

Mayor Grama Leonard said the lease would deliver regional emergency‑response benefits, adding, "from my perspective as as a mayor, I think it would be a super great thing for the people of Pearson." Staff described the agreement as a 12‑month lease that converts to month‑to‑month unless either party gives 30 days' notice.

Ryan, the staff member who presented the draft, told the council the tenants and their counsel largely agreed on terms. "They agreed on the $2,000 a month plus up to 5,000 in land clearing," Ryan said. He also said the operator would be responsible for utilities and site improvements; tenants may remove most improvements at lease end except the helipad itself.

Council and staff discussed permitting and site review steps. Ryan said the tenant must secure site‑plan approval with Mark and obtain any septic and building permits. He warned the fire marshal could require a sprinkler or a commercial‑grade water service, which would mean installing a larger meter and extending water from the main on Washington. Council noted that moving a use to commercial status could affect the town's tax exemption for that parcel.

The motion to approve the lease between Allen Pearson and Ed Randall was moved by Councilwoman Lenny Richardson and seconded by Vice Mayor Robert Greenlander; the clerk conducted a roll‑call vote and the measure passed unanimously. The council recorded no amendments and directed staff to continue coordinating permitting and site‑preparation steps with the tenant.