Columbia Metropolitan Airport Public Safety

The meeting agenda includes discussions regarding Energy Project Borrowing as well as general old and new business items.

This document details a multi-year Capital Improvement Program (CIP) outlining planned infrastructure projects and associated funding over a specific timeframe. It focuses on significant investments in aviation infrastructure, including the rehabilitation and reconstruction of taxiways and runways, expansion and improvement of aprons and terminal facilities, and upgrades to various operational structures and equipment. The program allocates funds from federal, state, and local sources to achieve strategic enhancements and operational improvements.

The Finance Committee reported on the Solar Microgrid Project financing, with final executable documents targeted for March, and the Commission unanimously approved a Reimbursement Intent Resolution related to project improvements. Staff provided the November and December 2025 Financial Reports, noting variances in revenue and expenses, particularly due to a major payment on the microgrid project in December, and confirmed that parking revenue decreases are being addressed with the management team. The Commission Chair announced the resignation of one Commissioner and the planned resignation of another, with appointments pending the Lexington County Legislative Delegation meeting. The President/CEO provided updates on operational performance during winter weather, including deicer usage and flight diversions, firearm confiscations at security checkpoints, progress on the Master Plan and strategic plan implementation, cargo development efforts, and the announcement of reinstated American Airlines service to Chicago. It was also noted that Pizza Hut has replaced the BBQ Pit in the food court, with significant revenue increases reported for the new vendor.

The meeting included discussions on staff demographics, the CAE Demographics and DBE Report, and the Affirmative Action Plan. There was a review of the June and September 2025 DBE reports, including a summary of DBE expenditures. The committee also discussed DBE outreach events and the impact of the U.S. DOT's interim final rule regarding DBE re-assessment. A presentation explaining the criteria for qualifying as a DBE was suggested for a future meeting.

The meeting addressed several key areas, including a microgrid update, a workforce snapshot update with concerns about the DBE program, and the approval of 2026 meeting dates and budget. The budget included adjustments for DBE relations. The October 2025 financial report was presented, highlighting a slight drop in cash, high enplanements, and revenue trends. There was a discussion of the economic impact of government-imposed restrictions on the national airspace. The commission authorized RLAD staff to move forward with construction of the 2025 Design-Build Solar PV and BESS Project. Carolina Concessions announced plans to replace the BBQ Pit location with a Pizza Hut.