HomeMy WebLinkAbout06-27-2017 Airport Commission Meeting MinutesJune 27, 2017
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MINUTES
IOWA CITY AIRPORT COMMISS
JUNE 27, 2017-6:00 P.M.
AIRPORT TERMINAL BUILDING
Members Present: Minnetta Gardinier, A. Jacob Odgaard, Chris Ogren
Members Absent: Julie Bockenstedt, Robert Libby
Staff Present: Michael Tharp, Eric Goers, Simon Andrew
FINAL
Others Present: Matt Wolford, David Hughes, Christopher Lawrence, Regenia Bailey,
Laura Routh
RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL: Ito become effective only after separate Council
action):
None.
DETERMINE QUORUM:
Odgaard called the meeting to order at 6:01 P.M.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
Minutes from the May 25, 2017, meeting were reviewed first. Ogren stated that she had one
small point, on the last page where the conversation is about the Young Eagles. It states,
"Tharp noted .... with the EAA Chapter out of Cedar Rapids." Ogren stated that technically this
Chapter is Iowa City and Cedar Rapids, and she suggested adding Iowa City. Gardinier
moved to accept the minutes of the May 25, 2017, meeting as amended. Ogren seconded
the motion. The motion carried 3-0; Bockenstedt and Libby absent.
PUBLIC DISCUSSION:
At this point, Chairperson Odgaard asked Tharp to introduce the newest Commission Member.
Tharp stated that they had several guests present this evening and he proceeded to introduce
Chris Lawrence, the newest Airport Commission Member. His term will start July 1. Tharp also
introduced Simon Andrew from the City Manager's office. Ogren then introduced herself to
Chris Lawrence, as did others present.
ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION/ACTION:
a. FAXIDOT Projects: AECOM / David Hughes
I. Obstruction Mitigation — Hughes noted that at the last meeting this item
was being held up by the FAA's response. He stated that this issue has
been resolved and they now will see if they have a grant application going
back to the FAA, based on the original numbers presented and the
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independent fee estimate that they requested be done. Tharp stated that
due to a short tum -around time, it would be useful to authorize the Chair
to sign the grant once it is received.
1. Consider a resolution authorizing Chair to sign grant offer —
Odgaard moved to approve Resolution #A17-09, authorizing
the Chair to sign the grant offer once received. Gardinier
seconded the motion. The motion carried 3-0, Bockenstedt
and Libby absent.
Hughes spoke to what the plans are once they can move forward with
this. He noted some general timeframes, including what would be due to
the FAA at the end of September, along with a draft version of the EA for
review mid to late October. That would be followed up with a public
comment period, and then the final version of the EA shortly after the first
of the year, with finish of the EA being anticipated by May of 2018.
ii. South Taxiway Extension — Hughes stated that this is under
construction currently, with the rock and storm sewer in place now. The
next phase will be paving, according to Hughes. He noted that they had
to make some adjustments with the apron they were planning for, and
that they will be having Metro put some additional concrete in to adjust
the grades. He then responded to Member questions regarding these
adjustments and the project in general.
iii. North T -Hangar Restroom —
1 . Public Hearing — The public hearing was opened at 6:16 P.M. by
the Chair. Tharp briefly reviewed this project, noting that it is to
add a restroom to hangar B on the south side. The storage area
that was there is being removed in order to do this. Tharp stated
that the State is putting in 70% of the funds for this project. He
then gave Members a brief rundown of the timeframes involved.
The public hearing was closed at 6:20 P.M.
2. Consider a resolution authorizing plans, specifications, form
of contract and authorizing bid — Gardinier moved to approve
Resolution #A17-10, authorizing plans, specifications, form of
contract, and authorizing bid. Ogren seconded the motion.
The motion carried 3-0, Bockenstedt and Libby absent.
b. Strategic Plan — Regenia Bailey started off the strategic planning session by
stating that they would be holding off on the SWOT analysis until Jeff Davidson is
able to join them. She noted that he had a previously scheduled trip and
therefore is unable to attend this evening. Bailey stated that they would be
focusing on the 'mission' and 'vision' statements this evening, with the objective
being to look at the current statements and decide if any changes are desired.
Beginning the review, Bailey began with the mission statement portion, noting
that basically it states the organization's reason or purpose. She added that
ideally it should be both unifying and inspiring internally, as well as concise and
clear. Externally the mission statement should be clarified. Moving on to the
vision statement, Bailey stated that this is what is seen in the future, if the
organization is successful. This is more aspirational in nature.
Continuing, Bailey further clarified what these statements are meant to do. She
shared with Members what the Airport's current statements are. Bailey then
asked Members to start a discussion regarding their mission and vision
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statements and what they may propose changing. Gardinier stated that for the
vision statement, she would question 'meets the needs of its stakeholders.' She
asked what 'its' refers to here, the City of Iowa City or the Airport. Gardinier
believes the current vision statement is more of a mission statement, as Bailey
had alluded to. Bailey asked if other Members agree that the current vision
statement should become the new mission statement. Members then discussed
some possible word changes to the statement. Bailey suggested clarifying
wording where possible, in order to provide accurate information to anyone
reading the strategic plan.
Members continued to discuss the wording for the mission and vision statements,
and how perceptions by the public should be taken into account. Ogren
suggested the wording of 'directed by the Airport Commission,' rather than
'through the direction of.' Matt Wolford with FBO Jet Air also made some
suggestions about moving wording around. Another suggestion was made to
change 'area' to 'community.' Gardinier read the current version being
discussed: The Iowa City Municipal Airport, directed by the Airport Commission,
provides for safe, cost effective general aviation that creates and enriches...., as
Members continued to discuss the wording. Ogren then suggested: The Iowa
City Municipal Airport, directed by the Airport Commission, provides a safe, cost
effective general aviation facility. The Airport creates and enriches economic,
educational, etc. Tharp suggested using the full name of the Airport throughout
the statement. Some Members agreed that they prefer the statement broken
down into two sentences. Odgaard stated that he would almost prefer one
sentence here. Bailey stated that she will draft this both ways, so that Members
can think about it and then revisit it at the next meeting. Ogren then reviewed
changes that Wolford had suggested, such as '....through providing a safe, cost
effective general aviation,' portion being moved, which would eliminate the 'that
creates' portion of the statement. Reading the statement suggestions again,
Wolford stated: The Iowa City Municipal Airport, directed by the Airport
Commission, creates and enriches the economic, educational, healthcare,
cultural, and recreational opportunities for the greater Iowa City community
through safe and cost effective general aviation.'
Moving on to the current mission statement becoming the vision statement,
Bailey noted that Ogren had said it was a pretty generic statement. Bailey added
that in strategic planning, you do not always need to have a vision statement.
Members continued their discussion on this issue, with Ogren asking if there is
truly a need for a vision statement, that perhaps it is to continue to do the
mission. Gardinier stated that she believes they do need it, that they should
aspire to be more. Bailey asked the group what aspirations they may have for
the Iowa City Municipal Airport, as it goes about its new mission basically.
Odgaard responded that in a sense it is to make the Airport a more prominent
community facility than it is today, in order to look forward to an even better
facility. He believes the Airport should be more integrated with the community
than it currently is. Ogren made the suggestion of: ....will continue to provide all
of the things above in a way that is integral to the Iowa City community. Others
agreed, noting that the Airport needs to be seen as an asset to the entire
community, not just the aviation community. The discussion continued, with
Members discussing just what it is the Airport is attempting to 'foster' in the
community. Odgaard responded that he sees it as recognition of the University
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and fostering awareness of the potentials for the Airport, or something to that
effect. Bailey suggested 'community pride,' and Odgaard agreed. Bailey asked
if Members want to say something regarding the programming that takes place at
the Airport. The suggestion was made '...fostering involvement of all ages,' and
'building a sense of community around the Airport.' The other Members were
impressed with these suggestions. Bailey continued to ask Members if they had
any other key words they wanted to add to the statement, and Members
continued to discuss just what it is they want to convey to the public. Bailey
stated that what she is hearing is that the group wants the Iowa City area to see
the Iowa City Municipal Airport as an asset or integral to the community.
Gardinier brought up a comment from the Pekin Municipal Airport: '...will serve
as a crucial component of the Pekin and greater Peoria area transportation
infrastructure and play a critical role in the advancement, growth, and economic
development of the region.' This comes from a combined mission and vision
statement, according to Gardinier. Odgaard spoke to how the Airport can be a
driver for economic growth. Bailey suggested using: '....that supports or drives
or contributes to the area's economic vitality,' or something along those lines.
She stated that she and Davidson will work with these suggestions to come up
with a draft for the next meeting. Regarding the public surveys, Bailey noted that
they received 575 responses, with 80% from Iowa City. She relayed the various
avenues used to get information about the survey out to the public.
C. Airport Operations
I. Budget — Tharp noted that the fiscal year is just about over. He stated
that there aren't any real surprises in the budget and they should have a
stable year-end. Odgaard asked if Tharp had prepared a graph like he
did last year at this time, and Tharp stated that he will try to have this for
the next meeting.
1. FY2018 Preview — Tharp noted that there are two key points in
this budget — the initial funding for the 100 -year anniversary event
and $5,000 for furniture replacement in the conference room.
ii. Management — Tharp noted that they are currently working through the
strategic planning process.
iii. Events
1. Young Eagles — June 10 and 17 were Young Eagle events.
Tharp noted that June 10 was the originally scheduled date, but
this had to be cut short due to high winds.
2. SERTOMA — This event is planned for August 20. Tharp noted
that this is a week earlier than normal.
d. Mid -American Energy — Tharp stated that this came to the Commission last
year, as well, but due to various reasons it was deferred. He noted that they now
know the actual location of the gas line and would like to be able to recommend
approval to the City Council. Tharp briefly responded to Member questions
regarding this issue.
i. Consider a resolution recommending Council approve a utility
easement—Ogren moved approval of Resolution #A17-11,
recommending the City Council approve a utility easement with Mid -
American Energy. Odgaard seconded the motion. The motion
carried 3-0, Bockenstedt and Libby absent.
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e. North Commerce Park Outlot B — Tharp stated that Outlot B is the small parcel
located between the Alexis Park Inn and Ruppert Road. Members briefly
discussed the offer of $20,000, which Tharp noted is backed up by an appraisal.
I. Consider a motion recommending Council accept purchase offer —
Odgaard moved to recommend to the City Council acceptance of the
purchase offer. Ogren seconded the motion. The motion carried 3-
0, Bockenstedt and Libby absent.
f. FBO / Flight Training Reports
I. Jet Air — Matt Wolford shared the monthly maintenance reports with the
Commission. He stated that May continued with the usual types of
maintenance being done — light bulb replacement, grass mowing, and
trash pick up. In June they have been doing some weed control around
the hangars. An expensive item noted was the filter replacements for the
various fuel system components. Wolford noted that they were able to
spread some grass seed around the new hangar area, in hopes that the
rain will get it started.
Moving on to Jet Air business, Wolford noted that the big news is the
completion of the hangar. He stated that Jet Air is looking forward to
being able to use the new space. The shop has been keeping busy, with
Wolford noting the addition of another mechanic. Charter flights have
been busy, as well, especially in the business sector. Wolford also noted
an increase in the flight training. Wolford stated that he would like to
show the Commission the new hangar sometime soon, and Odgaard
suggested at the next meeting. Gardinier suggested that they consider
adding a flat screen monitor to the main area of the terminal building that
could be used to show recent student pilots who have earned their
license, for example, or to do some marketing for the Airport. She added
that she has seen these used at other airports around the country. Tharp
and Wolford will work together on the flat screen monitor idea.
g. Commission Members' Reports — Gardinier stated that this year's Air Race
Classic was very successful. She earned third place this year, her best race yet.
Ogren shared that they were at the EAA Chapter meeting this past weekend.
She also stated that she was able to meet Congressman Dave Loebsack
recently, along with Wolford and Tharp last week. Ogren noted that she will be
gone for two weeks, should Tharp need an interim Chair during Odgaard's
absence. Odgaard stated that he leaves Friday for Beijing and returns the
following Friday.
h. Staff Report — Tharp also noted Congressman Loebsack's visit and what they
were able to briefly discuss. He then noted that he was able to speak with
Bockenstedt recently and she asked that he extend her thanks to the
Commission. Ogren stated that she wanted to add one more comment about the
Loebsack visit. She noted that Tharp and Wolford were very impressive in their
representation of the Airport. The discussion turned briefly to drones and the use
of them in the immediate area. Gardinier asked if they have considered
switching out the current hangar lights for LED ones. Tharp stated that they have
not, as the bulbs are basically the renter's responsibility and the renter can put in
LED bulbs if desired. Odgaard then spoke about the hangars up in Dubuque,
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noting that they have a fresh coat of paint on them. He asked how often the
Airport does this. Tharp noted that it does not happen very often, but that they
do have a project to 'reskin' the hangars on their list of projects for the future.
Odgaard asked if this is something they should do prior to any 100 -year
anniversary celebration. Members agreed that they should look into this further.
100 -year Anniversary Committee — Ogren stated that she has not yet received
any responses on the form she sent out. Tharp stated that he is over 50% done
with his portion.
SET NEXT REGULAR MEETING FOR:
The next regular meeting of the Airport Commission will be held on Thursday. July 20. 2017, at
6:00 P.M. in the Airport Terminal Building.
ADJOURN:
Ogren moved to adjourn the meeting at 7:52 P.M. Odgaard seconded the motion. The
motion carried 3-0, Bockenstedt and Libby absent.
10 /( 7.&:Z
CHAIRPERSON DATE
I
June 27, 2017
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Airport Commission
ATTENDANCE RECORD
2017
Key.
X = Present
X/E = Present for Part of Meeting
O = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
NM = Not a Member at this time
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07/01/19
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Gardinier
OIE
X
X
X
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X
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Chris
07/01/18
O
Ogren
I
X
X
X
E
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
A.Jacob
07101/18
O/
Odgaard
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
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X
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Julie
07/01/17
O
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Bockensted
I
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OI
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X
X
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X
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X
X
X
X
X
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Robert
07101/20
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Libby
I
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of
X
X
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X
X
O
O
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X
X
X
X
X
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Key.
X = Present
X/E = Present for Part of Meeting
O = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
NM = Not a Member at this time