Southwest Michigan Regional Airport Board

The meeting covered a range of operational and financial items. Key discussions included the approval of bills, updates on infrastructure projects like the Cirrus sprinkler system and hangar leases, and reports from the building committee regarding snow removal efforts. The board reviewed a proposed Through-The-Fence operation request and discussed adjustments to the FY 25/26 budget. Additionally, the board received updates on upcoming media efforts and a fly-in event, addressed concerns regarding the Euclid Ave snow situation, and considered a request for payment assistance regarding recent electrical work.

The board discussed transferring Certificate of Deposit (CD) funds and other airport assets at Sturgis Bank to different financial institutions to maximize FDIC insurance coverage. The Airport Director reported on the tenants meeting, snow cleanup, and the sprinkler system project at Cirrus. The board also discussed insurance appraisals for hangars, Benton Harbor taxes, and hangar rent rates. Additionally, the board authorized the Airport Director to sign the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) Office of Aeronautics sponsorship contract for the 2026 Main Apron Project. Updates were provided on social media efforts and community outreach, including a discussion on increasing the monthly pay for media efforts. There was also a discussion about establishing a formal flight school at the airport. Public comments addressed concerns about lease portrayals, standardization of rates, and lease renewal notices. Support was expressed for bringing Santa to the airport.

The meeting agenda was amended to include discussion of longevity bonuses. The Board approved corrected minutes from the November 20th, 2025 meeting. The Treasurer's report included approval of bills and an identified long-term liabilities Whirlpool loan requiring further explanation. The Airport Director provided updates on the Cirrus Hangar sprinkler project, the audit report, snow removal status, and potential longevity bonuses. Committee reports covered minimal maintenance expenditures and the first Flight School Committee meeting scheduled for January 6th. Old business included setting a matured Certificate of Deposit into new CDs and the signing of the MDOT Sponsorship Contract for the apron project. New business involved a discussion regarding increasing landing fees for afterhours landings. Airport media reported a surge in social media activity. The Board unanimously approved $100 net longevity bonuses for employees and discussed the need for office interior upgrades and activating the Friends of the Airport group for an upcoming millage vote. Public comments included a request for information regarding a Women's fly-in event planned for the spring.

The board reviewed reports regarding airport facility projects, including a hangar build and an airport apron project. Discussions covered the status of airport equipment, specifically repairs for a front-end loader and winter maintenance equipment following a severe winter season. The board also addressed personnel matters involving an employee termination and discussed budget adjustments, specifically transferring funds from the fuel budget to part-time wages to account for increased snow removal labor requirements.

The meeting included discussions on maintenance of delta projects, purchase of a finish mower, and updates on the Director's calendar of events. The Maintenance Committee reported on the finishing mower, tire options, repairs to the Kobuta Chopper, and beaver trapping needs. The Finance Committee covered the annual audit, budget status, and sponsorship of a Humane Society table. New business included a proposal to buy more cameras for the airport and a discussion on replacing extinguishers. The board also convened in a closed session, later approving actions discussed within.