Missoula County names airport authority appointees, selects two alternates

Missoula County commissioners approved a slate of appointments to the Airport Authority on the board's final administrative meeting of the year.

County staff member Maddie told commissioners the Airport Board recommended moving Jack Mayer to a partial active seat that runs through Dec. 31, 2029, moving Shane Stack to a new five-year active term, and continuing Adrian Beck as the county representative. The Airport Board also recommended Richard Huffman and Cheryl Hughes for the two alternate five-year seats.

"They did say that every applicant was very well qualified, and they wish they could take 1," Maddie said, summarizing the Airport Board's view of a competitive applicant pool. She noted Richard Huffman's airport and university connections and emphasized a desire for diversity in experience among appointees.

A board member moved that the commission "do everything that Maddie said" and follow the Airport Board's recommendations; another commissioner seconded the motion. The board then voted in favor.

Commissioners discussed the range of experience among applicants, with members noting real estate and aviation backgrounds among finalists. One commissioner said the Airport Board favored a mix of industry, university ties and real-estate expertise when making its recommendations.

The appointments take effect immediately for the stated terms and will be reflected in the county's appointment records. No public objections or challenges were recorded during the meeting.