Official Newspaper of Eddy County since 1883
Official Newspaper of Eddy County since 1883
The Eddy County Commission met on Tuesday, March 19 and spent a fair amount of time in discussions with the New Rockford Airport Authority. Earlier this month, Governor Doug Burgum signed a proclamation declaring March Aviation Month in the State of North Dakota. In this proclamation, Burgum cited that the aviation and aerospace industry continues to play an increasing role as economic catalyst. More aviation news was to follow, as the bill nicknamed Operation Prairie Dog passed through the state House of Representatives and moved to the state Senate. This measure would establish an airport infrastructure fund from which the aeronautics commission could provide grants from funds made available by legislative appropriations.
This is all good news, but the Airport Authority has major projects on the docket that cannot be delayed. Both the hangar and terminal at the Tomlinson Field Airport were destroyed in last year’s July 8 windstorm and need to be rebuilt. In addition, the taxiway, apron and runway still await repairs. The estimate totals $720,000 for construction and $1.2 million for repairs.
Insurance payouts from the storm have been made and total $300,000. Currently the Airport Authority is preparing a request for state airport aid from the North Dakota Aeronautics Commission. The state’s share would be $1.5 million, or 75 percent of this $2 million project. However, the Airport Authority is still short $200,000 of its share. Erling Rolfson, Airport Manager, came before the County Commission to request 4 mills, approximately $56,000 annually, from Eddy County for three years.
Commission Chair Glenda Collier suggested that the county and city convene in a special meeting, as the Airport Authority is already receiving 4 mills from the City of New Rockford for a total of $9,172 in 2019. The commission tabled the matter in order to research the topic, especially in regards to North Dakota Century Code 20-6-14. Collier also expressed the importance of revisiting the archives to take note of previous agreements that had been made.
County staff gave the commissioners updates from their respective departments. Recorder Patty Hilbert is working to keeping up with technology to store documents for a longer shelf life than the traditional microfilm used in the past. Treasurer Kathy Anderson stated that she has $312,000 left in county taxes to collect. Nearly $20,000 of that is from 2016, which means foreclosure notices will begin going out soon.
“It was good!” Todd Weber convincingly spoke about his first week on the road as County Road Superintendent. After a good laugh he went on to let everyone know his enthusiasm was sincere. “It was exciting, and now I know what to expect in the fall,” Weber said. He also pointed out the county shop in Hamar needs attention and a few repairs including the furnace. As Weber continues in his position, he will be present at many more commission meetings.
