Staff outlines $100,000 state/local grant guidance and 50/50 tank-replacement options

Staff briefed the commission on two funding programs that may be available to the airport: a state/local program offering up to $100,000 per project and a state 50/50 underground storage tank (UST) replacement program that allows replacing USTs with above-ground storage tanks (ASTs).

On the $100,000 program, staff said a preapproval form is available so the commission can submit an estimate and scope to determine eligibility before soliciting bids; applications are due by July 15 and the program will fund projects through the end of the year as dollars allow. Staff noted up to 15% of awarded funds may be used for professional services and projects between $50,000 and $300,000 will require sealed quotes rather than informal quotes.

Staff recommended considering crack sealing on the north end of runway Bravo as a likely candidate for the $100,000 award but cautioned that $100,000 may not cover all of Bravo and suggested prioritizing segments. Separately, staff described the state 50/50 tank-replacement program: tanks are eligible after about 20 years, get priority around 30 years, and replacement costs can be substantial (examples cited included bids near $1.2 million for comparable two-tank projects). Staff advised verifying registration in the state's UST program and eligibility letter prior to beginning work to ensure reimbursement.

The commission asked staff to compile project estimates and return with a recommended scope for any preapplication submittal; staff provided hard-copy packets of prior correspondence on the programs for commissioners to review.