The Grayson County Airport Board tabled matters and met in executive closed session during its first meeting of the year Thursday. The GCAB did not take any action after the closed session but did appoint a committee to meet with attorney Ben Munson concerning pending litigation.
The board tabled discussion on the proposed minimum airport standards. Several board members had questions about language in the document and definitions.
“I wonder about the enforceability of some of this,” said Kent Black. “I have concerns over disputes arising from some of these vague phrases.” During the discussion, there were several members expressing confusion over wording in the document. Board Chairman Ellis Olmstead agreed to get comments from the airport’s fixed base operators and the airport’s attorney as he tabled any decision on the proposed standards.
“This is a document that we are going to live with for a very long time,” said Gail Utter. “We need to make sure it’s right.” The proposed changes were introduced in December.
In tabling the issue, the board in effect tabled another item since it was to be considered after minimum standards were in place.
In other business, the board approved the transfer of a lease from Rod Tatchio to North Texas Aviation, a three partner ownership company. Tatchio is one of the partners.
“This will make things a little clearer,” said Tatchio. “All the personal guarantees are still in effect.”
The GCAB also approved the application for a grant to do routine maintenance. According to GCA Manager Mike Shahan, the grant, for up to $60,000, will be used to paint two remaining buildings, Nos. 111, 5513. These are the final buildings on the airport grounds that need to be painted, Shahan added.
“It will be the usual tenant pays 25 percent of the cost; we pay 25 percent and the grant covers the other 50 percent,” explained Shahan.
Also, on the board agenda was a presentation by Best Jet, Inc., the newest operation at the airport. Owner Roger Humiston introduced several staff members who have been with the operations of the CJ610 jet engine for many years. Best Jet will refurbish the engines for clients nationwide and internationally.
“They have all been around this engine since it came out,” said Humiston. “They will train workers from this area how it works.” Humiston, who moved his company to GCA in early 2003, noted that the new operation was a long time coming.
“Since 1968, I have had this dream of owning an engine shop,” he said. “With the help of these talented men and the commitments from
“This is one great example of aviation business prospering at this airport,” said Olmstead.
“We are tremendously excited to be here,” replied Humiston. “We hope to exceed our goals and be a benefit to this airport and this community.”
George Zavras, of GE’s propulsion modernization program, was also at the meeting. GE has named Best Jet as an authorized service center for the CJ610/CF700 engine program. Best Jet, Inc. and GE have signed a Memorandum of Understanding for the program, according to Zavras.
“We are excited to have Best Jet as part of the program,” said Zavras. “Roger wants to keep these airplanes (LearJets) flying and our engines can help.”
Humiston told the board that construction on the facility was on schedule and he was “going to get out of the way” of his management team.
“They are the best,” he said.
Best Jet will market Humiston’s shared aircraft ownership program as well to offer the airplanes to different buyers at a better value, Humiston said.
“I believe the need for private transportation is increasing,” explained Humiston. “Our intent is to modernize the LearJet and show its viability for the next 40 years.”
In his director’s report, Shahan told the board of the increase in fuel sales. The past year’s sales have increased 20 percent over 2002. Shahan also reported the airport did well during the recent TxDOT compliance inspection. Only three items were cited, all of which have been fixed, he added.
“Overall, they said we had a ‘remarkable’ inspection for an airport our size,” related Shahan.
The next meeting will be held at the