HomeMy WebLinkAbout10-11-2007 Airport Commission Meeting Minutes MINUTES FINAL
Iowa City Airport Commission
October 11,2007
Iowa City Airport Terminal—5:45 PM
Members Present: Howard Horan, Chair;Randy Hartwig; Greg Farris; Janelle Rettig,
John Staley
Staff Present: Sue Dulek,Michael Tharp
Others Present: Jay Honeck, David Hughes, Phillip Woolford, John Yeomans,
Terry Edmonds,Joe Merschman,Turk Regennitter
DETERMINE QUORUM:
The meeting was called to order at 5:45 P.M. by Horan.
RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL: None.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES FROM TILE SEPTEMBER 13 AND SEPTEMBER 24,
2007 MEETINGS:
Hartwig stated that on the September 24th minutes,page 2, about a quarter of the way
down—it states"Screening for the dumpsters so they are not visible to taxing aircraft,"
should read"taxiing" aircraft. Rettig noted that on the September 13th minutes, she
abstained from the vote for the approval of minutes from August 9 and 13 and September
5 meetings. Hartwig moved to accept the September 13 and 24,2007 minutes as
amended; seconded by Farris. Motion carried 5-0.
PUBLIC DISCUSSION:
None.
ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION/ACTION:
a. Aviation Commerce Park—Dulek noted that she did not contact those
involved, and therefore, no one attended tonight's meeting. She will contact
them prior to next month's meeting.
b. Farmers National Company—John Yeomans was present to address the
Commission regarding the farm ground at the Airport. He stated that since the
last meeting he has been thinking about what he could do for the Airport
property to improve the income, and possibly get more positive exposure for
the Airport. With Yeomans were Joe Merschman and Turk Regennitter, who
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gave a presentation to the Commission. Regennitter addressed the
Commission, and stated that in talking to Yeomans they came up with some
various ideas for the land. Merschman addressed the Commission next,
giving the Members an overview of Merschman Seed Company and
explaining the company's background and mission. Merschman stated that
they are interested in 20 to 25 acres where they could showcase some of the
new technology in seeds. He continued, stating that they could have their
meetings in Iowa City,when farmers from other areas come to see what
Merschman has to offer in new technologies. He also stated that aerial tours
are a growing area, as well, for farmers to view their farmland from above.
Regennitter and Merschman continued, giving the Members information on
their company and their goals. They stressed the importance of getting the
new technologies to the farmers in this area, and to be able to continue with
research and development, such as the new Omega-3 soybeans. The
discussion continued on the various emerging developments in the agricultural
field, and how these affect consumers.
Discussions continued,with Merschman showing the Members pictures of
various field day setups that they have held in the past. He talked about the
changes in the various seeds, and how they are aiding farmers in keeping pest
problems under control. He then talked specifically about the south end of
runway 36,where they would need an entrance put in, at their cost,so they
could access this area of farmland without interruption to the runway or to the
Airport. They would also be interested in being able to utilize a conference
room,when needed, in order to meet with some of the farmers and others that
would come to visit this site.
Members then asked questions about the proposed farming arrangement, and
Merschman and Regennitter responded. They further explained how the plots
are"miniaturized"for this type of layout. Rettig then stated that she is taken
off guard by tonight's presentation, as she was not prepared for this. She
stated that she will have questions for Merschman and Regennitter,but needs
time to review this. Hartwig stated that he is in favor of adding this topic to
their upcoming agenda, so they can discuss it further. He added that it is very
interesting, and that he is sure others would like to be a part of this discussion.
Rettig added that she would like to see the Members funnel their questions to
Tharp, and to have him then contact Merschman and Regennitter for more
information. This would give the Commission time to see how this would fit
into the overall plans for the Airport. Merschman and Regennitter reiterated
that they are flexible in their plans,and that they would like very much to
discuss this further with the Commission.
c. Hangar#56—Terry Edmonds—Farris and Hartwig recused themselves,
due to conflict of interest. Terry Edmonds was present to address the
Commission. Horan noted that Terry's letter was part of their info packets for
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October 11, 2007
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this meeting. Rettig stated that hangar 56 is a"hangar,"and not a"garage."
Edmonds noted that part of this hangar is not large enough for an aircraft
though. Staley then asked what the FAA's rules are on this issue—having
non-aircraft items in hangars. Horan explained that the Airport has a"fair
market value obligation" in running the Airport,under the FAA regulations.
He explained how he called around to see what area storage facilities charge
for storing vehicles, in order to give the Airport a better understanding of this
issue. It was stated that the FAA does not state that vehicles cannot be stored,
but that the Airport has a"fair market value"obligation to charge accordingly.
Rettig addressed Edmonds, asking if he was subleasing his space for the car
storage, and noting that doing so would be a violation of his lease. Edmonds
said that he did not think that he was subleasing because there is no written
agreement with the car's owner,but that the car does not belong to him and
the owner contributes to the hangar rent. Edmonds explained to the
Commission that this portion of his hangar has an actual garage door on it,
and not a hangar door. Staley asked for some clarification on this particular
hangar. Edmonds reiterated that all he wants is a hangar space for his plane,
but since this hangar is larger and costs more,he feels he should be able to use
this space. Rettig stated that she is not in favor of storing cars in the hangars,
that this is not a storage facility. She is not in favor of this, and feels that
Edmonds has been in violation of his lease. Staley questioned why this
hangar was built this way to begin with. Rettig said that if they are going to
allow storage then they need to charge accordingly for storage. Horan stated
that he does agree that this could foster storage problems,but that he goes
back to his concept of the value of the storage space. Staley asked what the
fairgrounds charge for wintertime storage. Edmonds suggested that they mark
off the extra space in his hangar, and that he use just the hangar portion—and
pay a lease accordingly. Rettig again noted that he signed a lease that said he
could not sublease, and that he has been in violation of this. She feels they
need to enforce the leases and the rules, and she feels this is wrong. Staley
agreed with Edmonds, stating that they could put in a fence to block this area
off, and then they could rent the T-hangar area at T-hangar rates, as was
suggested by Edmonds. Staley asked Tharp what the rates are. It would be a
difference from$304 to about$168 per month. Another option that was
discussed, per Tharp,was a private hangar, shaped specifically for this type of
aircraft. Rettig stated that she feels there could be liability issues if they don't
put up a secure wall and entry on hangar#56. The discussion continued,with
Staley asking if they would have any uses for this smaller portion, if it were to
be walled in. Dulek stated that in regards to the liability issue, if Edmonds
would agree to this arrangement,he could agree to take full responsibility for
anything in this hangar space. Members then asked about other possible
hangar space for Edmonds' aircraft. Staley asked that Tharp look into this,
and to see what they can do to help Edmonds find hangar space. Staley and
Horan both agreed that they feel the storage isn't an issue—the issue is the fair
market value and what they need to charge. The discussion continued,with
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Members asking if there are other aircraft that would make better use of this
particular hangar.
Jay Honeck suggested the Commission consult an attorney who specializes in
FAA matters. He stated that there is no enforcement of these types of things,
that it is up to the Commission to decide if they want to allow storage or not.
Staley asked Dulek if the Commission could state that they do allow this
storage to happen. Dulek suggested adding the wording that he can maintain
his current arrangement, until the issue is resolved. Tharp stated that they do
need to decide if they will or will not allow storage in the hangar areas.
Staley moved to lease Hangar#56 to Mr.Edmonds for$304 per month
and that Edmonds request from the Airport Commission permission to
sublease his space,but that Edmonds can keep the cars in the hangar
until the November meeting at which the sublease issue will be discussed
seconded by Horan. Carried 2-1; Rettig in the negative; Hartwig and
Farris recused themselves due to conflict of interest.
Rettig asked Tharp to pull names from the waiting list and to see who could
possibly use this hangar space.
d. FAA/IDOT Projects—Earth Tech—David Hughes
i. Runway 7/25—The project is going well,per Hughes' report. He
stated that they met with the contractor today, and he is planning to
start placing concrete soon,depending on the weather.
ii. South Aviation Development Study—no changes. Rettig asked for
a copy of the draft report, and Hughes stated that he will get this
for her
iii. South Taxilane Rehab—no changes. .
iv. Hangar A&B Doors—this is complete and adjustments have been
made,per Hughes' report. He said they will need to make
adjustments as the doors are used.
1. Consider a Resolution Accepting Hangar A&B Door as
Complete—Consider Resolution#A07-29 accepting
Hangar A&B Door—moved by Hartwig,seconded by
Rettig. Motion carried 5-0.
v. Jet A Fuel System/AvGas Upgrade—Hughes reported that they
have received bids. The grant will be amended to offset the
shortage, due to the higher than expected costs.
vi. Terminal Apron Rehab—The contractor on this job hopes to start
next week, again dependent on the weather, according to Hughes.
vii. Obstruction Mitigation—Hughes noted that since the last
discussion,they have discussed this with the FAA and they have
received a new finding on the proposed light poles and are ready to
move forward with Mid American's relocations. Hartwig asked
about timelines, and asked how they impact the opening of the
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runway extension. Hughes also mentioned the booklet,and stated
that they are getting ready to get that to the printer. Horan asked
about the United hangar, and when this project will begin. Hughes
stated that it is an obstruction to the runway. Horan asked if they
wouldn't need 60 days or so to bring this hangar to the ground.
Hughes stated that they do need to finalize plans for the FAA's
comments before they could begin. Hughes asked for some
guidance on when the Members would like this done. Horan said
they could time it around the lights,as the concrete will be in place
before the lighting. Rettig asked if there was any storage space at
the new Sand Lake facility that the City purchased recently. She
added that it's a shame they have to tear down this hangar,but that
they have no choice right now.
e. Airport"Operations": Strategic Plan-Implementation; Budget; and Airport
Management—Rettig asked about two overhead door repairs on the monthly
budget. Tharp explained that they had two reports from the same building of
doors not working correctly,and the repair was to replace frayed cables.
Tharp further explained, with Rettig questioning why he proceeded with this
repair without the Commission's approval. She noted that these are non-
budgeted items. Farris stated that this brings up having a maintenance
contract for these types of repairs. Staley noted that he sees frayed cables as a
safety risk, and that it should be replaced immediately. Rettig asked for more
clarification on this item,noting that Tharp authorized this for$2,500 and that
this is in violation of a resolution giving Tharp such approval. The discussion
continued,with Rettig continuing to question this. Dulek gave some insight to
the discussion, stating that the issue is not a legal one,but perhaps a personnel
issue. Hartwig noted that Rettig's point is well taken. Rettig stated that they
must remember to get multiple bids, and that Tharp must follow the resolution
as set forth on his spending limits. Members continued to discuss this
particular issue,noting that often times it is impossible to get multiple bids.
Rettig then brought up page 5,under Miscellaneous Computer Hardware,the
camera, and that it should be moved to the correct line. Then on page 7,
Rettig noted that this is another item where Tharp purchased something for
more than the $2,000 allowed amount,noting that there are now two incidents
of this happening. She added that getting a bike rack is not an emergency
situation.
i. Hangar G Roof Repair—Tharp stated that he failed to report this
repair, as well, and that Stanley Overheads did the repairs, and they
were the only bidder at the time. He stated that he and several
Commission Members were witnesses to the leak and the need for
immediate repair. The discussion continued,with Members giving
their input. Rettig asked for a specific date on when Tharp was
notified of the leak,in conjunction with their meeting. Rettig
voiced her concerns regarding this roof repair bill, stating that they
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passed a resolution in 2006, stating that Tharp has now violated
this resolution three times. Farris stated that he agrees that the
$2,000 mark is there so immediate things can be taken care of, and
that they cannot have this happening. Rettig noted that$11,000
plus of non-budgeted items has been paid for,but now they have to
take this amount from other items, such as training sessions.
Staley asked to see a copy of this resolution,which Rettig
provided. Farris stated that he agrees that they probably would
have agreed to these items,but that they need to move forward
now and make sure that this does not happen again. Horan agreed
with this. Rettig noted that she will not vote in favor of this,and
briefly explained her protest vote reasons. Staley stated that
perhaps they should reconsider this resolution,that when there is a
needed repair such as these,that they may need to have emergency
meetings or phone conferences in order to address them sooner
than once per month. He suggested they amend this resolution that
states Tharp must have approval before any emergency repairs take
place. Staley moved to approve these repairs as billed;
seconded by Farris. Motion carried 4-1; Rettig in the negative.
Dulek asked if the Commission would like this item on next
month's agenda, with some possible solutions.
ii. FY2009 Operations Budget—Horan asked if they shouldn't set up
a strategic planning meeting, noting that the proposed farm
opportunity needs to be discussed, as well. He asked if they
couldn't set a time now for this planning meeting. Hartwig stated
that he thought they were awaiting the Willow Creek study first.
Horan agreed.
Tharp stated that he had one more item to share,the mower. He
discussed the equipment replacement plan, and funds from this can
be used to purchase the needed mower for$16,906. Rettig asked
for clarification on this State program and how it works. Tharp
explained this and the various equipment items in the budget.
Rettig moved the expenditure for a 20' mower of$16,906,and
in turn they extend out the vehicle replacement to cover this;
seconded by Hartwig. Motion carried 5-0.
Rettig noted that the budget subcommittee has met twice,and they
have also met with Dale Hefting,the Interim City Manager,to get
some clarification. She stated that with the sale of Lot#5,they lost
around$5,000 from the two leases on this land. She discussed
"operating subsidy"and how this is arrived at. She gave the
Members some background on the economic development charge
in the budget and what the budget subcommittee is considering.
She said that they are proposing that some of the leftover monies,
from the easement sale and land sale,be used to move up some of
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October 11, 2007
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the project phases. The extra money left over could be used to
cover budget deficits, or have it be carried over into a"savings"
account. Rettig stated that the asphalt project would be the first
one they would propose moving up to this fiscal year. She briefly
explained some changes that have been made to the FY09 budget
proposal. Farris spoke to a maintenance budget. Members turned
the discussion back to the economic development charge,noting
that they need to say something to the City about this charge.
Horan asked when they present this to the Council, and if Rettig
would be interested in presenting the budget this year. Rettig also
proposed obtaining State grants to cover a new hangar, and briefly
explained the subcommittee's goals. Farris moved to accept the
FY2009 budget as proposed; seconded by Staley. Motion
carried 5-0.
f. FBO Staff Report—Woolford stated that the construction of the ramp is going
well. He said the helicopter operations are coming in and out,with some
above normal activity due to the Hospital's pad being closed. He further
stated that on November 1st they will have a new shop mechanic,bringing
their total to seven. He also spoke briefly to the possible farming of the
Airport land.
g. Subcommittees' Reports—Horan noted that the southend subcommittee met
with Wendy Ford, Bob Miklo,Jeff Davidson and Dale Helling to go over the
draft report that they have. He said they stated that the Willow Creek study is
what is impeding any further development. Tharp spoke about the viewing
area and the progress there.
h. Commission Members' Reports—Rettig noted that the primary took place
recently,and that there are four candidates running for two City Council seats.
She encouraged everyone to attend one of the upcoming forums and to ask
questions of the candidates. Hartwig noted that when he was at JetAir
recently,he noticed there was some new aircraft there. Rettig stated that she
would like to know how much use tax they have generated in Johnson County.
i. Staff Report—Tharp noted the FY2009 FAA applications are due back to the
state December 14, and he briefly explained what they will be putting in this.
He also noted that they had a small fly-in gathering at the beginning of the
month, and they received one complaint on this regarding flying over
residential areas versus farmland. He also mentioned the FAA conference and
his attendance at this. Tharp also mentioned the University expansion and
that this issue is on the Council's agenda for this coming week. Dulek noted
that she met with Andy Chappell of the County recently,to discuss the county
adopting an updated airport zoning code.
• Airport Commission
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SET NEXT REGULAR MEETING FOR: November 8, 2007 at 5:45 P.M.
ADJOURN:
Meeting adjourned at 8:35 P.M.
7
CHAIRPERSON DATE
Airport Commission
October 11, 2007
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Airport Commission
ATTENDANCE RECORD
YEAR 2007
(Meeting Date)
TERM 1/11 2/8 3/8 3/28 4/12 5/10 5/15 6/7 6/8 6/28 7/9 7/19
NAME EXP.
Randy Hartwig 3/1/09 X X X X X X 0 X X X X X
Greg Farris 3/1/13 O/E X X O/E X X X X 0/ X X X
E
John Staley 3/1/10 X X X X X X 0 X 0/ O/E X X
E
Howard Horan 3/1/08 X X X X X X X X X X X X
Janette Rettig 3/1/12 X X X X X X X X X X O/E O/E
TERM 8/1 8/9 8/13 9/5 9/13 9/24 10/11 11/8
NAME EXP.
Randy Hartwig 3/1/09 X X X X X X X
Greg Farris 3/1/13 X X X X X X X
John Staley 3/1/10 0/E X O/E 0/E O/E 0/E X
Howard Horan 3/1/08 X X X X X X X
Janelle Rettig 3/1/12 O/E X 0/E 0/E X X X
KEY: X = Present
0 = Absent
0/E= Absent/Excused
NM= No meeting
-- = Nota Member