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2021-08-09 MINUTES 1
KITTITAS COUNTY
AIRPORT STUDY SESSION MINUTES
BOCC CONFERENCE ROOM, 205 WEST 5TH ROOM 109 - ELLENSBURG
Regular Meeting
MONDAY 11:00 AM August 9, 2021
Board members present: Chair Brett Wachsmith, Commissioner Laura Osiadacz, and
Commissioner Cory Wright
Others: Sherriff Clay Meyers, Deputy Prosecutor Neil Caulkins, David Welz, Alan Lindemoen
Meeting Call to Oder: Chair Brett Wachsmith 11:00AM
Hazard Mitigation Grant:
Director Grannan discussed the need for backup power generation at Bowers Field. In
discussions at the recent Budget Retreat, Chief Deputy Higashiyama recognized the opportunity
for the Sherriff’s Department and the Airport to team up and apply for a Hazard Mitigation
Grant, to purchase backup power generation. The grant does require a 25% match from local
government (12.5% County/12.5%State).
Sherriff Myers is in full support, as the Airport is critical infrastructure in the event of an
emergency. Commissioner Wright inquired about potential maintenance/repair costs. Sherriff
Myers recommended Director Grannan to reach out to Director Stacey to discuss a maintenance
plan purchase. Director Grannan responded with the intent to purchase a maintenance/repair
agreement with the purchase of the backup power generation.
The BoCC is in support of this grant application and approved the Departments
(Sherriff/Airport) to move forward.
Economic Development
Director Grannan reports the Economic Development Committee is working diligently on
their Marketing Plan. The Airport is utilizing County Code as the standard zoning and minimum
standard requirement until the County signs a formal Interlocal Agreement with the City of
Ellensburg. The intent is to have a fully published and approved Marketing Plan in place by the
first of the year. Director Grannan expressed praise for Subcommittee Member Dave Ralston for
his hard work and dedication in this endeavor.
Commissioner Wright inquired on Director’s intent with the plan and the BoCC. Director
Grannan expressed his desire to keep the Board in the loop and updated but is not seeking action,
at this time.
Fixed Base Operator
Director Grannan reported the Airport will not be seeking an RFP for a Fixed Base
Operator (FBO) at Bowers Field. The Airport has received (and is receiving) enough unsolicited
inquires to be able to make recommendations without the extra step. Deputy Prosecutor Caulkins
affirmed this opinion and stated an “RFP would not be required”.
Commissioner Osiadacz asked about services that will be provided by the FBO. Director
Grannan responded with the following: Avionics and Power Frames Mechanic, Pilot Lounge,
observation deck, courtesy cars, overnight accommodations, food and drink, flight simulators
and event space.
2021-08-09 MINUTES 2
AG Lease
Director Grannan stated the Airport is on the verge of going to bid on the Agricultural
Lands. The intent is to have the bid package approved on the 17th of August, and to begin the bid
processes on the 18th, closing on the 8th of September. There is a concern with bid manipulation,
as a result only one bid will be accepted per Ranch. Leases will be for 5 years vice 10, due to the
ongoing/upcoming construction and wetland mitigation.
Commissioner Wright asked about fencing on tract 6. Director Grannan stated the intent
is to use construction funds to build the fence vice placing the requirement on the tenant.
Fly-In
Director Grannan stated the Fly-In planning is in full swing, but he is having difficulty
drumming up interest from the community. The Airport will continue to plan and work towards
building support. There was a concern with COVID, however after discussion with the BoCC, all
plans will stay in place.
OTHER BUSINESS:
None
Meeting adjourned at 11:45am.
KITTITAS COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
KITTITAS COUNTY, WASHINGTON
David Welz Brett Wachsmith, Chairman