HomeMy WebLinkAbout6.13.17 Minutes dwd_201707121041115012Town of Nantucket
NANTUCKET MEMORIAL AIRPORT
14 Airport Road
Nantucket Island, Massachusetts 02554
Thomas M. Rafter, Airport Manager Commissioners
Phone: (508) 325-5300 Daniel W. Drake, Chairman
Fax: (508) 325-5306 Arthur D. Gasbarro, Vice Chair
Anthony G. Bouscaren
Andrea N. Planzer
Jeanette D. Topham
AIRPORT COMMISSION MEETING
June 13, 2017
The meeting was called to order at 5:02 pm by Chairman Daniel Drake with the following
Commissioners present: Vice Chair Arthur Gasbarro and Jeanette Topham. Anthony Bouscaren
participated via telephone conference due to geographical distance. Andrea Planzer was absent.
The meeting took place in the 1st floor Community room at the Public Safety Facility, 4
Fairgrounds Rd. Nantucket MA.
Airport employees present were: Thomas Rafter, Airport Manager, Noah Karberg, Environmental
Coordinator and Jamie Sandsbury, Business and Finance Manager.
Mr. Drake announced the meeting was being both audio and video recorded.
Mr. Drake asked for comments on the Agenda. Hearing none, the Agenda was adopted.
Mr. Drake asked for comments or corrections to the May 11, 2017 Meeting Minutes. Ms.
Topham made a Motion to approve as drafted, Second by Mr. Gasbarro and Passed unanimously
by the following roll-call vote:
Mr. Bouscaren – Aye
Ms. Topham – Aye
Mr. Gasbarro – Aye
Mr. Drake – Aye
Ms. Topham made a Motion to ratify the Warrants of 5/24/17 and 6/7/17. Second by Mr.
Gasbarro and Passed unanimously by the following roll-call vote:
Mr. Bouscaren – Aye
Ms. Topham – Aye
Mr. Gasbarro – Aye
Mr. Drake – Aye
Pending Leases/Contracts – Mr. Rafter presented the following Leases and Contracts:
United Airlines - 2017 Seasonal Airline Lease for $15,920 plus $1,500 Annual Business
Fee (ABF) plus Landing Fees.
ACKlete Fitness- 2017 Beach License Agreement for $1,500 ABF.
Sayles Seafood - 2017 Beach License Agreement for $1,500 ABF.
Jacobs Engineering Group – On-call engineering services. Each task assigned will
amend on-call with amount and determination of funding source.
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Airport Media Solutions - Contract for $4,400 to extend Advertising Consulting
Services for remaining balance of original contract which had expired.
Stanley Access Technologies – Winning bidder for a three-year Operating Budget
Contract for $70,500 for preventative maintenance, service and repair of Airport
automatic doors.
Rectrix Aviation – Winning bidder to supply and deliver switchback boarding ramp
Capital Budget Contract for $77,844.
State of NH, Department of Safety, Division of Fire Standards & Training – $8,675
Operating Budget Contract for two sessions of required live burn training for ARFF
personnel.
Ms. Topham suggested increasing the $1,500 Annual Business Fee with the next revision to Rates
& Charges.
Discussion moved to oversight and frequency of events hosted by holders of Beach License
Agreements; in particular, the scheduled classes proposed for ACKlete Fitness as it relates to
beach congestion. ACKlete Fitness business owner, Danny Jacobs, addressed the Commissions
questions noting his willingness to adjust class times to satisfy the Commission. After brief
discussion on limiting fitness class times, Ms. Topham made the Motion to approve the ACKlete
Fitness Beach License Agreement with no classes to be held between the hours of 11:00 a.m. to
5:30 p.m. Second by Mr. Gasbarro and Passed by the following roll-call vote:
Mr. Bouscaren – No
Ms. Topham – Aye
Mr. Gasbarro – Aye
Mr. Drake – Aye
Mr. Drake asked for comments on any other pending leases or contracts. Mr. Gasbarro made a
Motion to approve the lease agreement with United Airlines, the license agreement with Sayle’s
Seafood and the contracts with Jacobs’ Engineering, Airport Media Solutions, Stanley Access
Technologies Rectrix Aviation and the State of New Hampshire. Second by Ms. Topham and
Passed unanimously by the following roll-call vote:
Mr. Bouscaren – Aye
Ms. Topham – Aye
Mr. Gasbarro – Aye
Mr. Drake – Aye
Mr. Drake suggested a policy on beach license activities to ensure approved activities do not
conflict with time or space. Mr. Rafter noted he would draft a policy for consideration.
Public Comment
None
Pending Matters – Mr. Rafter reported:
042214-2 Formerly Used Defense Site (FUDS) Status – The Airport is still awaiting a final
determination from the Army Corp of Engineers (ACE).
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011315-2 General Fund Repayment Proposal and Discussion of In-Kind Services – Another
reminder for a response was submitted to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Mr. Rafter
added that after in-kind services are deducted from the $235 budgeted for repayment, the amount
remaining for FY2017 is $76,054.08 and requires Commission approval to transfer that amount.
Mr. Gasbarro made a Motion to authorize the transfer to the escrow account the amount of
$76,054.08 for FY17 General Fund repayment, subject to receiving acceptance of in-kind
services. Second by Ms. Topham and Passed unanimously by the following roll-call vote:
Mr. Bouscaren – Aye
Ms. Topham – Aye
Mr. Gasbarro – Aye
Mr. Drake – Aye
042017-2 Hangar 1 Fair Market Rental Value Appraisal – Mr. Rafter reported the determined
appraisal value of the land associated with hangar 1 is $2.10 per square foot. The lease has been
adjusted accordingly
061317-2 Brookfield Asset Bridgetown, LLC Sublease to FedEx Corp. – Mr. Rafter reported
receiving a request to execute a Recognition, Non-Disturbance and Attornment Agreement
(RNDA) between the Airport, Brookfield Asset Bridgetown, LLC and FedEx required by their
lender. Airport Counsel upon review requested minor revisions which Brookfield has accepted.
Airport Counsel has suggested approving the revised RNDA; but, withholding delivery pending
some minor revisions needed to the FedEx sublease. Mr. Gasbarro made a Motion to approve
the Recognition, Non-Disturbance and Attornment Agreement, not to be released until receipt of
required documents to the satisfaction of the Manager and Counsel is met. Second by Ms.
Topham and Passed unanimously by the following roll-call vote:
Mr. Bouscaren – Aye
Ms. Topham – Aye
Mr. Gasbarro – Aye
Mr. Drake – Aye
122215-1 Air Service Update – Mr. Rafter reported on his attendance at the Jumpstart
Conference in Providence, RI where he met with eight (8) airlines in early June. Meetings with
United and Delta resulted in interest to possibly expand the shoulder season; however, American
didn’t seem receptive to providing Philadelphia service. Southern Airways showed interest in
providing service between Nantucket (ACK) and Providence (PVD) as PVD has one non-sterile
gate available. Discussed off-season service from Hyannis (HYA) to large hub airports with
several carriers. JetBlue appeared to be the most interested. Cape Air is considering utilizing a
40 seat aircraft, an ATR, as an alternative to the 402.
Mr. Rafter noted Boston Logan, NY Kennedy and Hyannis airports are all undergoing runway
work which will result in delays all summer. A meeting was held with JetBlue and Air Traffic
Control to develop a contingency plan for prolonged delays.
In response to Ms. Topham’s follow up questions, Mr. Rafter responded that a) there is currently
no service to PVD and b) it is unclear how the fares may differ should Cape Air switch to the
larger aircraft.
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061317-1 Ratify Revised Advertising Rates – Mr. Rafter provided a handout to replace the rates
provided in the Commission packets; a short-term, two-month rate was added to the Full Term
Package to accommodate the shortened season with the delay of installing the new display
screens. After brief discussion, Ms. Topham made a Motion to ratify the 2017 Advertising Rates
as indicated on the handout. Second by Mr. Gasbarro and Passed unanimously by the following
roll-call vote:
Mr. Bouscaren – Aye
Ms. Topham – Aye
Mr. Gasbarro – Aye
Mr. Drake – Aye
061317-3 Volume Fuel Discount Program Discussion – Mr. Rafter reported a fuel discount for
high-end users is being considered. Mr. Karberg and Ms. Sandsbury are developing the
parameters to determine if there is opportunity for a viable program.
061317-4 Non-Union FY18 COLA Discussion – As requested by the Chairman, Mr. Rafter
recommends a 2% cost of living increase to the non-union personnel, effective July 1st, noting the
increase is in line with Union and other Town negotiations. Mr. Gasbarro made a Motion to
approve a 2% cost of living increase for non-union personnel for Fiscal Year 18. Second by Ms.
Topham and Passed unanimously by the following roll-call vote:
Mr. Bouscaren – Aye
Ms. Topham – Aye
Mr. Gasbarro – Aye
Mr. Drake – Aye
Manager’s Report – Mr. Rafter reported:
Project Updates
Air Traffic Control Tower – This project is complete.
Vault Room – The installed regulators are not working properly and a third party was
brought in to run tests. The General Contractor, Kobo Utility was present. The test
results are anticipated next week. The FAA has been notified of the project delay.
Interactive Employee Training (IET) – The IET is in place and working well for the
Security Identification Display Area (SIDA) and non-movement area driver training.
Modules for the movement area driver training as well as the Part 139 training is under
final review. The snow removal module will be somewhat generic since you cannot
predict when a snowstorm will hit to do live recording.
Public Address/Flight Information Display System projects (PA/FIDS) – According
to Jacobs’ recent update, Kobo Utility is expected to give a quote for the electrical
portion which will hopefully allow the project to be completed.
SRE Sbowblower – Airport Counsel has written a letter to the manufacture’s (Kodiak)
attorney and have not yet received a response.
Crack sealing project – A State-funded project to crack seal the runways has been
completed.
Security Cameras – The installation of this State-funded project that has been
completed. Remote access for the authorized users is still being coordinated.
North Ramp Rehab Area III – Initial bid received for construction was $2.4M with
$2.2M authorized for the entire project. The FAA rejected the bid and the project is
currently back out to bid with bids due 6/28/17.
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Geometry Analysis – Project has been awarded to McFarland-Johnson and we are
awaiting their schedule of work. Air Traffic Control has supplied some documentation
that will be beneficial to the analysis.
Crew Quarters Project – No change in status - Conceptual drawings and floor plans are
being developed by the architect and they will coordinate with the surveyor and then the
plans will be submitted to FAA for approval. The next step is to work with Town
Consultant to see if it is a viable project for developers.
RFP/Bid Status – Mr. Rafter reported the RFP’s being worked on include:
Airport Gas – The last addendum issued to clarify the rate structure and to revise the
sample lease agreement on the advice of Airport Counsel. The proposal due date was
extended to June 23, 2017.
Terminal Concession Retail – No proposals were received. The Airport is considering
re-advertising for a short-term lease and is also considering incorporating the space into
the RFP for the restaurant space which is coming up for renewal next year.
Solar Land Lease – Proposals were received and are currently under review. Mr. Rafter
shared a letter sent to State Senator Cyr asking for support to extend the program in
Massachusetts beyond its current expiration date of December 31, 2017. A similar letter
was sent by Town Administration.
Passenger Ramp – Contract approved earlier in the meeting to the winning bidder,
Rectrix Aviation.
Apron Flood Lights – Bids received were over budget. Invitation to Bid will be revised
and re-advertised.
Operations – Mr. Rafter reported:
Airline Fuel Audits – A letter was received from JetBlue praising the Airport and staff
on our fueling facility after its audit of our facility. A surprise audit was also conducted
by NetJets as well and a similar letter is expected.
Tarmac Delay Meeting – A meeting was held with Air Traffic and JetBlue to discuss
and plan for irregular operations expected due to the runway work at Logan, JFK and
Hyannis.
July 4th Preparations_ The Airport is once again involved with the Town’s 4th of July
crown control planning on island beaches. Installation of additional port-a-potties and
trash dumpsters will begin on June 29th.
FBO Sales Results for Wine Festival were up 16% over last year and Memorial Day
weekend were up 9% over last year.
Air Traffic Control staff received an award from the FAA for their teamwork in mobile
control tower transition and cooperation through the tower rehabilitation project.
Dates to remember
Triennial Exercise – Is scheduled for September 13, 2017.
Flying Association Aviation Camp is taking place June 26th through the 30th
DPW Director and Deputy Director toured the airport facilities and airport affirmed our
desire to assist the DPW and the Town any way it can.
Statistics – Mr. Rafter reviewed the April 2017 statistics:
Operations are down 5% from April 2016; and down .03% from last FYTD.
Enplanements are up 5.76% from April 2016; and down 10% from last FYTD.
Jet A Gallons are up 71.24% from April 2016; and up 2.13% from last FYTD.
Jet A Gallons for May are up 4%.
AvGas Gallons are up 21% from April 2016; and up 10.84% from last FYTD.
AvGas Gallons for May are up 6.53%.
Freight is up 7.82% from April 2016; and down 23.18% from last FYTD.
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1 Noise Complaints was filed for April 2017.
Personnel Report – Mr. Rafter reported:
After losing some seasonal employees, replacements from Puerto Rico, familiar with
airport operations were hired. Over-all, the outcome is beneficial as the replacements can
work later into the season and have experience.
The Administrative Assistant has resigned and we will look to fill that position promptly.
061317-5 Request to Travel – October 1-3, 2017 from Mr. Rafter to attend the National Airport
Conference in Las Vegas for which he serves on the Conference Committee. Ms. Topham made
a Motion to approve Mr. Rafter’s travel request, October 1st through 3rd to Las Vegas. Second by
Mr. Gasbarro and Passed by the following roll-call vote:
Mr. Bouscaren – Aye
Ms. Topham – Aye
Mr. Gasbarro – Aye
Mr. Drake – Aye
Commissioners Comments
Mr. Bouscaren remarked on the difficulty of attending the meeting via telephone but asserts it is
better than missing the meeting, adding he appreciates Mr. Rafter’s report.
Mr. Gasbarro asked for an update on Tailwind, the seaplane operator. Mr. Rafter indicated that
Mr. Karberg has been in contact with Tailwind explaining our fee structure as it relates to
scheduled service. Tailwind has indicated they will drop the scheduled service and operate as an
on-demand charter, which has the fee requirement of paying only the ABF plus Landing and
Ramp Fees.
Mr Rafter continued by explaining that air carriers operating under a Part 135 (on-demand
charter) certificate are allowed to offer scheduled service so long as they offer less than five
scheduled flights per week and are limited in the size of aircraft which can be utilized.
The FAA defines “scheduled” if the service meets three (3) elements: point of origin, point of
destination and departure time. If the operator, not the passenger, determines any of these three
elements it is considered scheduled service. Mr. Gasbarro noted he viewed Tailwinds website
just prior to the meeting and was able to find posted days and times of travel between NY and
Nantucket. Mr. Rafter will investigate further.
Mr. Drake reported the transfer of the Thompson House property from the Land Bank to the
Airport has been completed and recorded. Mr. Drake will be reviewing the related Executive
Session minutes to determine if they can be released at the next Commission Meeting. Mr. Drake
also intends to write a letter to the Land Bank thanking them for their cooperation.
Mr. Drake announced he and Mr. Rafter have a meeting with Dan Wolf, of Cape Air in Hyannis
on June 15th to discuss Cape Air’s customer service issues and declining reputation.
Public Comment
None
Having no further business for Open Session, Mr. Gasbarro made a Motion to go into Executive
Session, under G.L. Chapter 30A, Section 21A, not to return to Open Session, to review
Executive Session Minutes as enumerated on the Agenda; Clause 3 – to discuss strategy with
respect to collective bargaining. The Chair has determined that an open session may have a
detrimental effect on the negotiation/litigation position of the Airport Commission; and Clause 3
6/13/17 Airport Commission Meeting
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to discuss strategy with respect to pending litigation related to SRE Snowblower. The Chair has
determined that an open session may have a detrimental effect on the litigation position of the
Airport Commission. Second by Ms. Topham and Passed unanimously by the following roll-call
vote:
Mr. Bouscaren - Aye
Ms. Topham - Aye
Mr. Gasbarro - Aye
Mr. Drake - Aye
Meeting adjourned at 6:03 pm
Respectfully submitted,
___________________________________
Jamie Sandsbury, Recorder
Master List of Documents Used
6/13/17 Agenda including Exhibit 1
5/11/17 Draft Minutes
5/24/17 Warrant Signature Sheet
6/7/17 Warrant Signature Sheet
United Airlines, Inc. 2017 Lease Agreement
ACKlete Fitness 2017 Beach License Agreement
Sayle’s Seafood 2017 Beach License Agreement
Jacobs Engineering Group On-Call Contract
Airport Media Solutions Contract (Exp 12/31/17)
Stanley Access Technologies 3-Year Contract
Rectrix Aviation Inc Contract
State of NH, Div. of Fire Standards & Training Contract (Exp 12/31/17)
2017 Advertising Rates
2017 Revised Advertising Rates (handout)
Sublease Agreement b/ Brookfield Asset Bridgetown LLC and FedEx Corp
Recognition, Non-Disturbance and Attornment Agreement / Airport, Brookfield Asset and FedEx
Corp (handout)
National Airport Conference Information (Oct 1-3, 2017)
JetBlue letter dated 6/1/17 re Fuel Storage Audit
Rafter letter to Senator Cyr dated 6/9/17 re: Solar Program expansion (handout)
April 2017 Statistics (handout)