Lee County Port Authority

The meeting commenced with staff recognition for two employees, Andrew Salmieri and Joe Suglia, for obtaining their certified membership from the American Association of Airport Executives (CM). The consent agenda, covering items 1 through 13, was approved unanimously. Under the administrative agenda, the committee reviewed and approved an agreement with Fruition Growth LLC to upgrade and replace the LCPA website, a five-year contract totaling $517,000. For item 15, regarding engineering inspection services for the RSW Terminal Expansion Phase 2 Concourse E project, staff recommended shortlisting three firms: EG Solutions Inc, H Montes a Bowman Company, and H Montes exp us Services Inc, with oral presentations scheduled for a future meeting. Other key updates included the announcement of new non-stop service by Breeze Airways to five cities, Base Ops at Page Field being ranked in the top 5% of all fixed base operators internationally for the 12th consecutive year, and a 70% increase in fuel sold in March 2024 compared to March 2023. The interim executive director also noted upcoming workshops concerning the LCPA strategic plan and the proposed FY25 budget. The meeting concluded with introductions of the newly appointed deputy chief and positive commentary regarding the outgoing executive director.

The meeting covered the administrative agenda, specifically the 2022-2023 budget, rates, and fees, including authorization for fund transfers. Discussions focused on significant changes to compensation plans based on recent County Commissioner decisions, involving a scaled increase (between 3% and 10% for employees making under $52,000 annually) effective June 23rd, and the removal of merit increases from the budget, although a 5% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) was included for discussion purposes only. The budget goals included maintaining low competitive costs, allocating resources for 19 new positions, and stabilizing rates using CARES Act money. Operating expenses are projected at $40.8 million, with a $10 million allocation from CARES funds. Non-airline revenues are projected robustly at $79 million, primarily from parking, car rentals, concessions, and restaurants, with passenger counts forecasted near 11 million. There was discussion regarding ensuring compensation remains competitive, referencing a planned pay plan study scheduled for the following year. Additionally, the board approved entering into a software agreement with CarOrSoft Technology for DocuSign, a cloud-based electronic signature solution, projecting approximately 16,000 uses annually at a cost of $94,000 per year.

The meeting addressed the ratification of five emergency purchases totaling over one hundred thousand dollars related to damage from Hurricane Ian, including funds for a sweeper truck, air freight buildings, and other facilities. The committee also authorized the executive director to execute a task authorization for $241,626 for the installation of seven self-service credit card stations in the airport parking facility. Furthermore, the committee heard presentations concerning RFP 2306 for non-exclusive food, beverage, and retail concessions, featuring proposals from Olson SC's Concessions LLC and Earl Enterprises, detailing concepts like the Marche food court, Flyables, Chick-fil-A, Buca Express, Asian Street Eats, Brio Italian Grill, iStore Express, Fort Myers Sunglass Boutique, and Sunset Market, alongside their financial projections.

The meeting commenced with the pledge of allegiance and public comment regarding the consent agenda. The consent agenda was approved without items being pulled for discussion. The administrative agenda included ratification of emergency purchases related to Hurricane Ian, totaling $955,000 (out of $2.1 million in total damage), which required board approval as individual purchases exceeded $100,000. The board then proceeded to review agenda item 11, authorizing a task authorization for the installation of seven self-service credit card stations in the airport parking facility. The primary focus of the meeting was agenda item 12, concerning RFP 2306 for non-exclusive food, beverage, and retail concessions. Presentations were heard from two responsive proposers detailing their concept plans, which included new food court designs featuring brands like Pliable and Chick-fil-A, as well as retail concepts like the Eyes Store Express and Fort Myers Sunglass Boutique. The proposers provided detailed business and financial plans projecting over $19 million in annual concession sales, a minimum annual guaranteed rent of $2.22 million, and a total capital investment nearing $8 million. Committee questions focused on the basis for these financial projections, specifically regarding passenger capture rates given existing vendors.

This document details the comprehensive study process for developing a Noise Compatibility Plan for Southwest Florida International Airport, adhering to 14 CFR Part 150. The process involves an extensive inventory of operational and environmental factors, identification of key noise and land use issues, evaluation of noise abatement and land use alternatives, and assessment of aviation noise community impacts. The plan's objective is to achieve FAA approval for effective noise management and compatible land use around the airport.