Airport Board discusses funding fencing

Saratoga Airport Board Advisory Board makes discision on use of CARE

The Airport Board meeting on Wednesday, May 13 2020 was a little over two hours long in which time, many topics were discussed but not many decisions were actually made.

One thing that was decided,was how to use part of the $30,000 allocation from the CARE act, the coronavirus economic relief plan. The grant was submitted for the purpose of operation and maintenance.

There is a concern with animals, such as deer, getting into the runway area. The fence surrounding the airport is in need of repair, part of the south side is falling over and there is no power to the electric fence. The board felt that it would be a good use of the CARE act funds to make the necessary repairs since an animal on the runway could be disastrous.

The budget was discussed but the conversation fell away to conjecture on how much traffic could be expected this summer since the economy is starting to open. However, there was some speculation that social distancing may still hinder travel.

Cathy MacPherson provided insight regarding the requirements for Risk Assessment Certification. She said that the current Risk Assessment was not up to date. The FAA requires that it is reviewed and approved by Town Council within the last 3 years. However, Dave Shultz was able to put the paper work together and represent to the FAA that the Town of Saratoga is actively involved in updating and reviewing the document, which satisfied the FAA. MacPherson stressed the importance of being truthful in any representations when submitting for a grant from the government, fines could be assessed and it could be difficult to receive grants in the future if found to be out of compliance with those representations.

MacPherson then provided a laundry list of things the Airport Board needs to accomplish in order to be in compliance with the FAA including filing meeting minutes along with any attachments to Town Hall and following FAA requirements when hiring an engineering service. One of the biggest changes she stressed was to have written processes and rules so that there is uniformity and expectations are understood.

In addition, a disaster plan needs to be developed. A question arose on how to go about creating the plan. MacPherson said that Rawlins had just approved a multi-hazard emergency plan and since it is public record a copy could be obtained to be used as a template for a plan for Shivley Field.

The next topic discussed was the apron expansion project. Previously, the Airport Board had included a de-icing facility in the plan, however, it was discovered that for airports with less than 10,000 departures per year, de-icing rules do not apply therefore the planned catch base is not required or necessary. A discussion with DEQ will need to be scheduled to discuss options for alternate options if the board decides to provide the service.

Other concerns about the apron expansion project were discussed such as the budget, waterlines under the runway that need to be moved and taking bids for the concrete pad.

Another meeting of the Airport Board was scheduled for June 10, 2020 at 3:30 p.m. to continue the discussion.

 

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