Airport Commission | Jan 24, 2025

Watch the meeting. AI generated summary of meeting video below. Corrections are welcome; see contact page.

The meeting covered a wide range of topics, primarily focusing on airport operations, finances, infrastructure, and upcoming projects. The meeting included reports on noise complaints, wildlife management, and progress on various capital improvement projects.

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Key Points

• Financial Matters: The commission approved travel requests for staff training (live fire training and a noise symposium) and a three-year cooperative service agreement with the USDA for wildlife damage management. The agreement includes annual wildlife training and ongoing wildlife control support.
• Noise Complaints: A detailed quarterly and year-end noise report was presented, showing an increase in complaints but mostly concentrated during waking hours. The report broke down complaints by location, time of day, aircraft type, and engine type. General aviation aircraft were identified as a significant source of complaints. A flight departure procedure analysis is underway to address noise concerns.
• Wildlife Management: The commission approved a three-year agreement with the USDA for wildlife hazard management, including training and on-site support to reduce wildlife strikes.
• Infrastructure Projects: Updates were given on several projects, including HVAC system redesign for the control tower, maintenance facility floor drain repairs, and the installation of EV charging stations.
• Electric Aviation: The airport is exploring the implementation of electric aircraft chargers, working with Beta Technologies and considering future partnerships with other companies.
• Strategic Plan: The commission is awaiting the final version of the airport's strategic plan.
• Airport Operations: Updates were provided on airline operations (American Airlines, JetBlue, Cape Air, Breeze), marketing efforts, and upcoming events (Scout sleepover).
• Elevator Repair: A significant issue with the control tower elevator was discussed, highlighting challenges in accessing and repairing specialized components. The commission expressed concern about the design and maintenance of critical infrastructure.

Highlights

• The detailed analysis of noise complaints and the ongoing efforts to address them.
• The proactive approach to wildlife management and the collaboration with the USDA.
• The focus on sustainable initiatives, including the implementation of EV charging stations and the exploration of electric aviation.
• The challenges encountered with the control tower elevator repair, prompting discussion about future infrastructure design and maintenance considerations.