7/28/26 Board of County Commissioners: Airport

The Kootenai County Board of County Commissioners held an Airport meeting on July 28, 2026, focusing primarily on updates from the Airport Director regarding ongoing and upcoming projects. Key procurement-related discussions included the delay of a major FAA grant-funded construction project to the following spring due to grant paperwork delays and seasonal constraints, with plans to award the contract once the grant is finalized. The airport is preparing to issue a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) to select a consultant for a comprehensive new master plan, which will involve extensive public and advisory board input and is expected to take over a year to complete. Additionally, the airport is progressing with the development of a third Fixed Base Operator (FBO) to increase service options, and is reviewing a lease agreement for the gun club area. The director also mentioned ongoing collaboration with engineers on an earth berm sound barrier project and highlighted the airport's role as a tanker base during a busy fire season. The advisory board expressed satisfaction with the airport's management and transparency, noting the importance of the master plan and upcoming development projects. No formal votes or motions were recorded during the meeting.