Carroll County Airport commissioners have said they would like to establish a local weather-reporting station here but may have to postpone those plans in favor of building more hangars.
Consulting engineer Joey Wallace explained at the April 19 meeting that state and federal grants would provide funds in 2025 for a new six-bay hangar, and the airport needs more hangars to generate revenue. The waiting list currently has 22 pilots needing space. Wallace said the airport could probably build another six-bay hangar in 2026.
Commissioners agreed that the Automated Weather Observing System would help local pilots but would not generate revenue. Grants would pay for the installation of the AWOS station, but the commission would spend $4,000 or more annually to maintain it.
The commissioners voted to proceed with new hangars and will discuss design questions at the May 17 meeting. They also discussed the possibility of upgrading and/or expanding some substandard hangars.
In other business:
- A current project to upgrade a Tee hangar is almost complete.
- In response to a public comment, commissioners briefly considered the possibility that the number of flights nationwide has declined since those numbers peaked during Covid times.
- The airport will check costs on a generator. A reduced price may be available through the Office of Emergency Management.
- Airport Manager Mark Pepple said he is preparing mowers for the coming season. The airport’s large mower had some repairs under warranty, and Pepple is seeking estimates for repairs to the smaller mower.
- Pepple reported on a surprise visit from the Transportation Safety Administration. Agents check local airports for problems such as drug running.
- Pepple said the airport made $250 during the eclipse, offering hamburgers and hot dogs to pilots and other airport visitors.
- The gate on the east side of the airport has been repaired.