August 2023 Annual report: Granite Shoals Airport Advisory Committee Accomplishments
Committee members: Steve Zbranek, Robin Ruff, Stewart Anderson, Al Satterfield, Dianne Maloney, Clive Jackson, Jeff Kahl
1. Assumed airport use: To date there are approximately 4-6 airplanes and 3-4 ultralights, landing a departing from the airport on a weekly basis. In addition, on occasion there have been, on occasion two different helicopters that have landed at the airport. Finally, over the last several months we have welcomed 4 new aircraft that have utilized the airplane tie downs at the north end of the airfield near the GS animal shelter.
2. The AAC planned and funded the construction of a dedicated medical helipad on airport property. Funding was by donation and no funds for construction came from the city. (Nearly $20,000 from in kind donation: ~$8,000 in 8” reinforced concrete, ~$5,000 in equipment rentals, ~$4,000 in labor cost.
3. In preparation for a future AOB, the AAC identified and acquire a plot of unused city owned land which was cleared and dressed. There was no city money spent, as all work was done by AAC members and equipment was donated, resulting in a savings of $12,150.00 in estimated costs for equipment rental and over 100 hrs. of labor over the span of 4 weeks (~$3,500).
4. The AAC planned and installed 5 airplane tie downs in the area at north end of the airport near the animal shelter to allow visiting pilots to tie down their aircraft for extended visits. This was accomplished with minimal city costs ($2,000 supplies) and donated labor and equipment cost of approximately $6,000 (conducted by AAC members).
5. The AAC sponsored the first ever (what will be a biannual event) Granite Shoals “Meet the Pilots” event. Attendance was estimated between 70-100 (children and adults) and considered to be a success. The AAC sponsored refreshments and treats for all visitors at no cost to the city. There were 7 planes in total that participated: 2 local planes and 5 visiting planes from nearby airports. In addition, AirEvac made an appearance with an air-ambulance and their air-medic team. Granite Shoals Fire and Police departments were represented and showcased a fire truck and police hummer. This was well received, and many children interacted with the vehicles and personnel. Thank you to Chief Ortis and Campbell for volunteering their departments time and resources to this event.
6. ACC attempted to use a game camera system to survey the airport to facilitate tracking of incoming and outgoing aircraft. Unfortunately, the AAC determined that the game cameras were not effective at monitoring the airport. Hence, the AAC recently acquired a cellular camera system equipped with HD video, night vision, pan and zoom capability, and alarm system, accessible through applications on personal devices. The AAC hopes to have the camera installed and operational by end of August. Total cost of the camera system and cellular service (~$500), labor and additional supplies will be donated.
7. The AAC reviewed the GS ordinance and found it to be dated and in need of amending. The committee submitted, to the city manager, suggested amendments modernizing the ordinances to accurately reflect utility and capabilities of the GS airport. The suggested changes have been submitted to the city attorney for review.
8. The AAC is proud to announce that we are a full 7-member diverse board where 2 committee members are property owners at the airport, one member is a pilot and plane owner, the five other committee members are aeronautical enthusiasts that see the potential the airport has a city resource. This group has a true interest in developing and adding value to the GS airport as a community asset. They all bring unique experiences and background, as business owners and aeronautical enthusiast, to the committee to build value in a valuable community asset. Finally, the committee is an energized group that works well as a team.
