Local aviators and business owners criticize airport authority, urge new appointment

A string of public comments focused on operations at the Dinwiddie Airport and the composition of the Dinwiddie Airport & Industrial Authority board. Several speakers asked the Board of Supervisors to appoint Jason Shields to the authority and to avoid appointing candidates who simultaneously serve on aviation boards in other localities.

Ray Acori told supervisors he built a commercial structure at the airport and urged the board to appoint Shields, saying: "Mister Shields is a proud citizen of Dinwiddie County and an aviation expert who operates an aviation company in Dinwiddie County." Michael Friedman, an aviation attorney, criticized the airport authority’s leadership and warned of potential FAA grant-assurance refund obligations tied to prior ramp work; Friedman said an ex‑FAA assistant administrator had identified likely liabilities.

Chip Harry, who said he purchased a building lost during litigation and described repeated Freedom of Information Act disputes with airport leadership, urged an immediate appointment of Shields and warned of additional litigation if records remain inaccessible. David Sweeney, an FAA‑certified mechanic, described a hostile environment at the airport that he said discourages businesses from investing. Several speakers emphasized transparency, the need for competent aviation expertise on the authority and protection of local investors.

Board members thanked speakers and took no immediate action to replace authority members during the public-comment period; the board later discussed appointments in closed session.