Port Of Lopez

The meeting commenced with a Public Hearing to approve the 2026 Budget and Levy Rate. Key discussions during the hearing involved updates to the budget to capture correct FAA grant funding levels, adjustments to Rock Island cell tower rent, and adoption of a 2.5% increase for rental hangars based on inflation guidance. The 2026 budget and Resolution 2025-4 for the 1% Levy rate were unanimously adopted. Agenda amendments were approved to include public commentary after Unfinished Business and an executive session for the Port Manager Performance Review. Unfinished Business included updates from DOWL regarding the tilt-down pole beacon installation, future hangar placement research, and potential threshold issues for 2026 engineering work. Updates on Blackwater operations highlighted the need for more trained operators, and progress on the Bayview Park Access project was noted, although budget inclusion is deferred. Following public commentary, regular business involved the approval of vouchers and financial reports. The Manager's report detailed the lack of compliance by the North Property tenant regarding equipment removal, leading to a motion authorizing the Manager to proceed with lease non-renewal/termination notices. New Business focused extensively on the New Hangar Allocation Policy and Waitlist, where Commissioners discussed defining local status, pilot activity benchmarks, and timelines for aircraft purchases, ultimately agreeing to revisit the complex discussion next meeting. A debrief of the WSCAA Conference was held, noting shared challenges with other airports and leading to a suggestion to revise Emergency Preparedness Policies. The Board will seek further details regarding the North Airport Property Local Grain Hub prospect. The session concluded with an Executive Session to evaluate the Airport Manager's performance, followed by a unanimous vote to grant the Port Manager a 7.5% pay increase effective January 1st, 2026.

The meeting addressed several ongoing and new business items. Unfinished business included an update from DOWL regarding a tilt-down pole delivery schedule and pending scope documents for external bidding, along with a discussion on two potential options for hangar additions. Updates on Blackwater maintenance revealed a resolved lifter issue and the missing Blackwater ladder, with efforts underway to secure O&M expense reimbursement. Progress on Bayview Park Access involved pursuing a shoreline exemption, despite learning that a potential funding source from the Port of Friday Harbor could not be used for non-aviation purposes. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to continuing the discussion on the waitlist policy for hangar allocation, resulting in the approval of a new policy prioritizing local community members, airplane ownership requirements (with flexibility provisions), and non-current renters. Regular business included the approval of vouchers, payroll, and the financial report. Correspondence review noted the State Auditor's focus on procurement and credit cards, and discussions concerning a proposed through-the-fence arrangement with Jeff King. Commissioner reports highlighted the need for improved security following incidents like the theft of bathroom closet keys and the siphoning of diesel fuel. New business involved a discussion regarding a potential long-term lease option on the North Airport Property for a local grain hub's business plan, and the approval of a hangar lease assignment.

This Master Plan Update for Lopez Island Airport outlines a comprehensive, long-term development strategy to address community needs and meet FAA standards from 2019 to 2038. Key objectives include enhancing efficient and safe aircraft operations, providing adequate landside facilities, and establishing a funding strategy. The plan focuses on resolving Runway Safety Area (RSA) deficiencies, managing Runway Protection Zones (RPZ), mitigating obstructions, improving the taxiway system, and potentially installing an Automated Weather Observing Station (AWOS) and implementing an Instrument Approach Procedure (IAP). It also details the phased development of north and south hangar areas to support future airport growth.

The meeting included updates on the AWOS/Beacon/RSA Construction Project and the 2026 Seal Coat Project, as well as Blackwater updates and Bayview Park Access Progress. There was a review of correspondence, including an audit submission and a Public Records Act request. The Manager's Report covered topics such as non-farming equipment on leased property, the main gate controller, hangar leases, and potential farming group interest. The board reviewed preliminary budget numbers for 2026 and discussed a North Airport Property Discussion/Housing wetland mitigation proposal. They also discussed credit card authorizations and a new hangar allocation policy.

The workshop is regarding the 2023 Budget. No decisions will be made at the Workshop. The hearing for the 2023 budget will be held at the regular Commission meeting.