The Colusa County Airport is not keeping up with inflation and relies too heavily on trust that the hangars are being used in compliance with federal regulations.
Those were the findings of the Colusa County Grand Jury, who investigated questions and concerns from the public regarding the airport leases and possible improper storage in some hangars.
The investigation was launched March 30 and concluded with the Grand Jury’s final report, dated June 30.
While the county airport receives federal funding through the FAA Airport Improvement Program, aviation property taxes, rents, tie-downs, fuel sales, parking, and interest funds, the Grand Jury found the Colusa County Airport, which is managed by the Public Works Department, does not generate enough revenue to be self-supporting.
“There is a loss of revenue due to lack of oversight and adjustments to the rental fees,” the report stated. “There is no evidence of competitive analysis of rates being done. It is acknowledged that even if rental fees were brought up to current market value, they may not fill the gap in funding needs, but it could be helpful.”
According to the report, the county does maintain documentation relating to hangar leases and the current status of the hangare, which are currently full – and with a waiting list.
owever, county staff does not verify that the aircraft occupying the hanger matches the aircraft on the lease, nor do they regularly check if the person on the lease is the actual person using the hanger.
The airport staff also does not check to ensure the airport hangars are used as intended, and that no unauthorized storage or use is occuring.
“Airport management currently relies on trusting patrons to adhere to lease agreements,” the report stated.
The Grand Jury did note there is an unfilled allocated partial full-time position in the Airport budget, but it has not been filled due to lack of funding, nor have the duties of the position been fully defined.
The Grand Jury has recommended airport management investigate how neighboring counties manage and fund their facilities; adjust rents and fees to current market value; develop a process to update and adhere to hangar waiting list; develop and annual inspection schedule for all hangars to ensure they are being used in compliance with lease agreements and current airport regulations; develop an annual inspection schedule that verity aircraft in hangars match airplanes on lease; verify the leasee matches the name on the lease; complete negotiation for expired commercial hangar lease; fill the allocated positions and provide personnel to oversee the routine airport operations, conduct compliance inspections, and perform necessary maintenance.
The Grand Jury requested the Colusa County Airport Manager (Public Works Director) respond to the findings and recommendations. The Grand Jury invited responses from the Colusa County Airport Advisory Committee. ■