Greater Rockford Airport Authority

The Board of Commissioners received several staff reports. The Deputy Director of Finance and Administration reported that revenues exceeded expenses by $7 million year-to-date, operating revenues were 3.4% over budget, and operating expenses were 11.8% under budget. Key announcements included changing the employee health insurance carrier to Aetna, budget planning for fiscal year 2026, the addition of a new IT employee, and planned upgrades to the auditorium AV equipment by LUX productions. The Director of Operations reported on extensive snow removal efforts, including the use of a snow melter, updates to internal communications to digital, and the successful conduction of 45 tours in 2025. The Executive Director noted record passenger enplanements for November (a 28% year-over-year increase), construction commencing on Parking lot F, and progress on the Air Traffic Control Tower (ATCT) site selection. A significant update included the selection of RFD for an FAA surveillance upgrade scheduled for completion by next September, which will aid snow removal operations. New business involved three resolutions: approving a contract with Aetna for 2026 group health insurance, approving an agreement with Azteca Services, LLC for a Cityworks Online enterprise license, and approving an agreement with Luxe Productions for auditorium audio/visual equipment upgrades not to exceed $80,000.

Key discussions during the meeting included a thorough review of the monthly financial report through December 31, 2025, noting that total revenues exceeded expenses by $7.2 million and operating revenues were 4.5% over budget year to date. Staff reported on challenges related to snow removal operations due to increased UPS activity and the age of equipment, leading to exploration of leasing options. Updates were provided on Maersk/Magma, a site tour with SF Express regarding potential e-commerce flights from China, and strong initial growth in Landline passenger service usage. Cargo numbers showed a 10% year-over-year growth, nearly setting an all-time record. Operational reports highlighted the need to address aging high-speed runway brooms and difficulties in setting up leased loader contracts.

The Planning and Finance Committee meeting focused on financial and operational updates. The Finance Director provided an overview of the preliminary monthly financial report through July 31, 2025, reviewed all resolutions and ordinances, and discussed GASB87 Lease accounting and the FY25 entry. The Executive Director reported on the status of AA/Landline service, including plans for a local PR campaign, a marketing campaign development meeting with Chartwell, and updates on ramp repair status, the intersection project, ACTC status, and OSHA matters.

The Planning and Finance Committee meeting included a thorough review of the statement of revenue/expenses through January 2025, noting that cash position and operating reserves are steady compared to FY2024 amounts. Total revenues exceeded expenses by $8.7 million through that period, with capital expenditures reaching $13.5 million through December. Operating revenues were reported as 3.2% over budget year to date, while operating expenses were 15.0% under budget year to date. All associated resolutions and ordinances were reviewed. Additionally, the Director of Finance presented the FYE 2026 tentative budget for a complete review.

The Planning and Finance Committee meeting included a review of the statement of revenue/expenses through December 2024. Key financial points noted were steady cash position and operating reserves, total revenues exceeding expenses by $8 million, capital expenditures totaling $13.4 million, operating revenues being 2.9% over budget year to date, and operating expenses being 9.2% under budget year to date. Additionally, the Executive Director reported that passenger service for 2024 exceeded the all-time record, attributed solely to Allegiant service and increased flight offerings. Cargo landed weight also increased year-over-year, with December showing significant growth. The committee was informed about an upcoming press conference to highlight these accomplishments and noted increasing Apple Vacation ticket sales being distributed weekly through MilesAhead.