E-1
CITY OF MERCED
REGIONAL AIRPORT AUTHORITY MINUTES
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS TUESDAY
MERCED CIVIC CENTER JULY 20, 2021
678 W. 18™H STREET
MERCED, CA
A. CALL TO ORDER
Chair Michael Bodine called the meeting to order at 7:02 P.M.
B. ROLL CALL
Members Present: Michael Bodine, Travis Colby, Robert Scoble, Jim Song
Members Absent: Bill Rudd
Members Excused: Cheryl Hirsch
Staff Present: Martin Pehl, Karen Baker and Frank Quintero C. WRITTEN PETITIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS
Staff reported that no Written Petitions and Communications have been received.
D. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
Staff reported that no Oral Communications have been received.
E. CONSENT CALENDAR
1. AIRPORT AUTHORITY MINUTES FOR MARCH 16, 2021
M/S/C-Colby/Scoble motion to approve and file.
F. REPORTS
1. AIRPORT AUTHORITY ANNUAL ATTENDANCE REPORT
M/S/C-Bodine/Colby motion to approve.
2. AIRPORT MANAGER'S REPORT
Airport Manager Pehl reported that there has been a 23% reduction in enplanements. Mr. Colby asked if we have received an explanation from Boutique Air. Pehl reported that staff has not received any communication from Boutique Air regarding this issue. Mr. Colby said that he understood that the City received a not very complimentary letter regarding Boutique Air. Manager Pehl said that a letter was submitted but did not mention Boutique Air by name. The letter can be found in the City Council minutes on-line on the City's website. Mr.
Pehl reported on the historic flight by Beams "Flying On Sunshine" world record attempt for the longest flight in a production electric aircraft powered by off-grid renewable energy. The flight made stops in the City of Fresno, City of Madera, City of Merced, and City of Lodi. Pehl announced that he has released an RFP for Marketing. Mr. Colby stated that he received interest from a company interested in responding to the Marketing RFP. Pehl gave an update on the Essential Air Service. The City of Merced is waiting on the Department of Transportation to decide regarding which Airline that they be selecting for Merced service. He stated that Boutique Air has been given an extension with an agreement that will be from 7/31/2021-12/31/2021. Mr. Scoble inquired about the turnover process. Mr. Quintero stated that the shortest turnover was 45 days which included training for staff that is involved. Mr. Scoble voiced his concern that there could be a two-week break in service. Manager Pehl responded that the City's goal will be a smooth and seamless transition.
G. AUTHORITY BUSINESS
1. SELECTION OF CHAIR AND VICE CHAIR
Mr. Colby nominated Mr. Bodine, Chair of the RAA.
M/S/C-Colby/Scoble-motion to approve.
Mr. Scoble nominated Mr. Colby, Vice Chair of the RAA.
M/S/C-Scoble/Bodine-motion to approve.
2. OTHER BUSINESS FROM AUTHORITY MEMBERS
Mr. Scoble asked about the new restroom. Pehl responded that the Airport needs to hire an engineering consultant and the restroom will be part of the RFQ. Mr. Bodine asked if they can be a part of the selection committee for the consultant.
H. ADJOURNMENT
Chair Michael Bodine adjourned the meeting at 7:26 P.M. until the next Regional Authority meeting on Tuesday, August 17, 2021 at 7:00 P.M. in the Council Chambers at 678 W. 18TH Street, Merced, CA 95340, in the Merced Civic Center.
M/S/C-Colby/Scoble motion to approve the meeting adjournment until the next scheduled meeting.
2 maiden o Bodice