Commission to add prominent disclaimer to airport fuel FAQ clarifying FAA and market role in unleaded fuel rollout

Commissioners on Sept. 4 asked staff to add a clear, front‑page statement to the airport’s unleaded aviation fuel FAQ to make explicit that decisions about availability of 100UL and approved unleaded alternatives are governed by federal certification, manufacturers and supply‑chain conditions rather than local authority.

Commissioner David said the FAQ should more strongly state that the FAA and industry lead approval and distribution decisions; Cara proposed a short “myth‑buster” style header to correct common misperceptions that local government can unilaterally force a fuel switch. Commissioner Hamilton suggested adding a timeline box that summarizes the typical sequence (federal approval, manufacturer certification, distribution availability) so the public can better understand when the airport could adopt 100UL.

Staff said the current FAQ references EPA/EGLE and FAA activity but agreed to add a highlighted text box above existing accordion FAQ panels that explains the city’s limited authority and the specific steps Middleton will take once approvals and a viable commercial fuel supply exist. The commission asked that communications staff word‑smith the language and return it for review.