McPherson Airport seeks $70,705 local share for fuel-system replacement

Cynthia, speaking for the McPherson Airport Authority, asked the McPherson County Commission for a local contribution to replace the airport’s aging fuel system and described recent upgrades at the field.

"Our runway lighting project has recently been completed with LED edge lighting and a new beacon," Cynthia said, and added that the next major project is replacing the antiquated fuel system. She said the airport is requesting $70,705, representing a roughly 10% local share toward a larger design and construction package. Commissioners asked whether fuel storage will be aboveground or belowground; Cynthia said the fuel farm for aircraft will be aboveground and that small aboveground tanks remain for maintenance equipment.

The airport representative described local activity that supports the project: regular flight training, maintenance services including FAA-certified inspection, five certified flight instructors and five airframe-and-power-plant mechanics. She said the airport hosts student flights, supports medical flights for the county and occasionally accommodates military and college training operations.

Commissioners questioned fuel demand, hangar occupancy and revenue streams. Cynthia said hangars are mostly full, tie-downs are rented (14 on rent and 41 available tie-downs mentioned), fuel demand is steady and staff use a price-check website to remain competitive. No formal funding decision was made at the meeting; commissioners indicated the airport’s request will be considered in the county budget process and in upcoming budget review.