Commission approves $31,327.89 quote to fence Houston County Airport; staff to seek MnDOT aeronautics funds

County staff presented a quote from Phillips Outdoor Services for $31,327.89 to install fencing between county airport property and adjacent private land at the west side of existing hangars. The presenter said the county will request MnDOT Aeronautics funding that typically covers 70% of such projects and that the anticipated county portion would be about $10,000.

The presenter described safety concerns — including people, pets and vehicles accessing ramp areas — and said FAA/TSA guidance encourages perimeter fencing and gates where feasible. Staff told commissioners the site layout prevents a gate across the entrance driveway without cutting off parking access; the state was informed and remains supportive of funding the fence portion. Commissioners discussed signage as an interim measure, liability concerns and the absence of available federal grant dollars for a project of this scale.

A motion to accept the Phillips quote was made, seconded and approved by voice vote.