Metropolitan Topeka Airport Authority

Key discussions during this meeting included a public comment period where a taxpayer expressed opposition to bond resolutions and questioned expenditures related to mowing and historical asset sales. Another member voiced dissatisfaction with the timeline for receiving a KORA request, to which administrative staff attributed delays to recent illness-related staff shortages. The Board deliberated extensively on establishing 1-year, 3-year, and 5-year strategic plans, involving consultations with legal counsel and scheduling presentations from Olsson Associates. A significant item involved delaying a Bond Sale Resolution (Resolution 26-311) until better bond ratings could be secured, which resulted in rescheduling the next meeting. Project updates covered bid plans submission to the FAA for Billard 18-36 and Topeka Taxiway A, progress on the Billard fence project, FAA approval for the Billard Tower airspace, installation of a new generator at the Topeka Terminal, and ongoing fuel truck maintenance issues. Economic development activity included finalization of Davcon documents and progression on the 60-day Due Diligence agreement.

The meeting addressed several key items, including the adoption of a modified agenda which included an executive session to discuss board policies and leasing matters. The Board considered revisions to MTAA Bylaws, specifically a motion to amend the required written notice period for public comments from three business days to one business day, pending a vote in the subsequent meeting. The Board accepted a bid from Kansas Fencing for the Billard Fence Project totaling $86,110.00 and approved paying a $10,000 deductible related to a Billard tenant loss, while also negotiating a lease amendment. Officers were elected for the upcoming term. Resolutions authorizing depository signatures were approved to transfer signing authority from the outgoing Chairman to the incoming Chairman. The Board also decided to continue with existing cost-share agreement negotiations regarding the cost of sewer repairs at Billard. Information items covered project updates, aviation issues, maintenance reports, financial reports, and economic development activities.

This Airport Master Plan Update provides guidance for the future development of Topeka Regional Airport over a 20-year period, aiming to meet the needs of existing and future users while ensuring environmental compatibility. Key objectives include forecasting air transportation demand, determining airside and landside facility requirements, recommending improvements, establishing a capital improvement program with funding sources, and providing land use recommendations to ensure compatibility with surrounding development. The plan also emphasizes public involvement throughout the planning process.

The agenda includes a public hearing on the 2026 budget, specifically addressing the intent to exceed the Revenue Neutral Rate (RNR). It involves inquiring about notifications for MTAA Board Meetings, adopting the agenda, and a roll-call vote on exceeding the RNR with the adoption of Resolution No. 25-307. The hearing also covers the 2026 Proposed Budget, with a consideration for its adoption and authorization for certification to the Shawnee County Clerk.

The meeting commenced with an adoption of an amended agenda, moving an action item and a presentation order. Key discussions included a presentation regarding an agreement with Davcon concerning the necessity and timeline for an Environmental Assessment for Hangar No. 619, requiring FAA and potentially SHPO approval, regardless of the final site selection for the MRO Hangar. The Board subsequently approved a quote not to exceed $80,000 from Coffman Associates for this Environmental Assessment. Additionally, Olsson provided a presentation on partnering with the Board to develop a realistic short-term and long-term strategic plan.