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Town of Nantucket
NANTUCKET MEMORIAL AIRPORT
14 Airport Road
Nantucket Island, Massachusetts 02554
Thomas M. Rafter, A.A.E., Airport Manager Commissioners
Phone: (508) 325-5300 Daniel W. Drake, Chairman
Fax: (508) 325-5306 Arthur D. Gasbarro, Vice Chair
David C. Gray, Sr.
Andrea N. Planzer
Jeannette D. Topham
AIRPORT COMMISSION MEETING
August 13, 2013
The meeting was called to order at 5:00 PM by Chairman Daniel W. Drake with the following
Commissioners present, Vice Chair Arthur D. Gasbarro, Andrea N. Planzer and Jeanette D.
Topham.
David C. Gray, Sr. was absent.
The meeting took place in the 1st Floor meeting room at the Public Safety Facility, 4 Fairgrounds
Rd.
Airport employees present were Thomas M. Rafter, Airport Manager, Ashley Christ, Business
Manager, Noah Karberg, Environmental Coordinator, and Janine Torres, Office Manager.
In reviewing the Agenda, Mr. Drake suggested discussing item #7, Nantucket Public Schools
Request for Flat Roof Building after Item #2, Public Comment. With no objections the Agenda
was approved as suggested.
Mr. Drake noted the 7/23/13 Minutes are still pending.
Ms. Topham made a Motion to ratify the 8/7/13 Warrant. Second by Mr. Gasbarro and Passed
Unanimously.
Public Comment
None.
081313-1 Nantucket Public Schools Request for Flat Roof Building – Mr. Rafter reported
receiving a letter from Nantucket Public School (NPS), Superintendent, Michael Cozort,
expressing interest in obtaining the flat roof building which consists of two – double wide trailers,
for use as classroom room space. Mr. Cozort’s letter states NPS will cover not only the cost of
moving the buildings but remediation of the site as well. Mr. Rafter added this is a viable
solution for both parties; and if Commission approves, will seek approval from the FAA.
Mr. Drake added the Nantucket Flying Association has previously expressed interest in the
building as well but such use may be may be prohibited under the State Constitution prohibition
against contributing to a charity, unless the Airport receives full value. He added his opinion that
the building should be moved from its present location.
Mr. Chris McLaughlin, President of the NFA, commented the present location of the building
would be great for any aviation use including the NFA; but admits the NFA is not yet in a
financial position to pay what might be fair market value rent for that location. Mr. McLaughlin
added he does not want to stand in the School’s way.
8.13.13 Airport Commission Minutes Page 2 of 6
Mr. Gasbarro believes planning on removing the building is premature. He believes the building
is fine in its present location and should be considered for future income purposes.
Mr. Cozort spoke as to the increasing student enrollments and the need to acquire additional
space. Preliminary estimate to move the building is between $75K to $100K. NPS will be
looking at building a new school in three to five years but needs to address the space issue until
then. When asked by Ms. Topham Mr. Cozort explained the building would be used for one
classroom this year, but two classrooms next year.
Audience member Carol Dunton commented the school appears to have an immediate need and
suggests the building could return to the airport at some time in the future.
A Motion was made by Mr. Gasbarro to respectfully reject the offer. Ms. Topham offered a
Second for discussion purposes. Mr. Gasbarro suggested the decision is too rushed for the
beginning of the school year compiled with the move into the new GA Building. If not an
immediate need, is willing to table the motion in order to obtain more financial information
regarding the needed improvements and potential income opportunities in its present location.
Mr. Cozort reported the School can make do until the building is available.
Ms. Topham and Ms. Planzer both agreed with Mr. Gasbarro in the sense that more information
is needed. Mr. Drake added if the Airport keeps the building it needs to be moved from its
present location to increase ramp space. Additionally, he would not want to spend the money to
rehabilitate and would look to any prospective tenant to do so by some means.
Mr. Gasbarro withdrew his Motion. The matter was tabled until the next meeting when some
financial data could be reviewed.
Pending Leases and Contracts
Mr. Rafter presented one (1) contract for approval:
Nantucket Auto Supply – A three year contract for automotive parts and supplies for a
not to exceed amount of $24,500.
Mr. Gasbarro made a Motion to approve the three year contract with Nantucket Auto Supply for
$24,500. Second by Ms. Planzer. After brief discussion pertaining to the effective start date, the
Motion Passed Unanimously.
Pending Matters
120412-3 Existing Bunker Lease Review – Mr. Rafter reported the Amendment of the Atlantic
Aeolus Lease is still pending.
021213-2 Supplemental Agreement to the Other Transactional Agreement (OTA) – ATCT
Mr. Rafter reported during a meeting yesterday with the FAA, Amy Corbett and Mary Walsh
reaffirmed the FAA will be taking the lead on the project and rehabilitating the existing tower.
Mr. Drake added the intention is for the balance of the Congressional earmark, approximately
$3M, be used to pay for the rehab.
Brief discussion took place regarding the Airport’s need to remain involved in the process and to
obtain clarification on the funding, specifically if it includes new equipment.
061113-1 Bunker Area Environmental Permit Review – Mr. Rafter indicated one of the
proposed lease lots from the most recent RFP was turned 90 degrees due to some environmental
concerns which are being addressed through the proper channels.
062513-3 Noise Abatement – Mr. Rafter reported educational efforts are continuing with Mr.
Karberg ordering larger APU use signs. There were 29 noise complaints for the month of July
with most coming from the same three people.
8.13.13 Airport Commission Minutes Page 3 of 6
070913-1 Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) Update – Mr. Rafter reported not yet
having a draft for review.
GA/Administration Building Project Update
Project Cost Review – Mr. Rafter presented a summary of the cost review as of July 26, 2013
which essentially shows that the additional costs associated with the project delay is being
covered by the accumulating Liquidated Damages (LD). Therefore, if through legal proceedings
we are not awarded the LD’s, we will need additional money. Mr. Rafter suggests being prepared
with an Article for Special Town Meeting (STM).
Amendments to ACG/NAG Contracts – Mr. Rafter presented the necessary Amendments to the
OPM and Architects contract for extending their services through the end of the construction
period not exceeding a three month period. Ms. Topham made a Motion to approve the
supplemental contracts. Second by Ms. Planzer and Passed Unanimously.
Sub-Contractor Insurance Discussion – Mr. Rafter indicated two of the sub-contractors were
unable to obtain the limits of insurance required by the Contract documents. Legal Counsel has
reviewed and noted they are covered under the General Contractor insurance and is a
Commission decision as to waiving the requirement for them to carry the limits separately. After
brief discussion, Ms. Topham made a Motion to allow the Sub-Contractors, Grimes Construction
and LaFleur Crane Service to carry a reduced limit of coverage amount than is required under the
General Construction Contract. Second by Mr. Gasbarro and Passed Unanimously.
Mr. Rafter noted a copy of the letter from Legal Counsel to the Surety formally rejecting the
construction schedule, identifying what is behind schedule and demanding work is completed in a
timely manner.
Mr. Rafter gave an update of the progress made since the last meeting. Hardwood floors and
carpeting are being installed. The Site work is almost complete. A conduit has been run for
Signet, and Signet is scheduled to connect the fiber Wednesday night. The area formally known
as “the mess” has been addressed and is now properly covered. The second floor painting is
complete.
Finance
072313-1 EOY FY2013 Budget Update - Mr. Rafter presented the updated FY13 EOY Update
noting the Net Surplus is $49K, down from $122K reported at the last meeting. Mr. Rafter
pointed out the bulk of the difference is the $90K General Fund Subsidy to start the design work
on the Taxiway Connector project prior to the Grant Award. It will remain a GF Subsidy on the
books until the Grant funds are received and approved via Town Meeting vote, due to Fiscal Year
carryover, to repay the GF.
Mr. Rafter mentioned concern over FY13 revenues not meeting FY14 projected budget by
approximately $60K. Copies of the pending Bunker Leases were delivered to Finance
Department for use with DOR showing the revenue from these Leases more than makes up the
shortfall. Mr. Drake added the excess fuel sales income in the fuel revolver isn’t reflected in the
Operating Revenue as well.
Mr. Drake reported if any adjustments are needed it will be done at 2014 Annual Town Meeting
(ATM).
Mr. Gasbarro asked about the Debt Issuance Costs showing on the spreadsheet. Ms. Christ
reported the issuance costs were approximately $26K and was included in the Bond Premium
line. Mr. Rafter noted working with the FD to report it separately in the future.
8.13.13 Airport Commission Minutes Page 4 of 6
081313-1 TON Capital Program – Mr. Rafter reported meeting with members of the Capital
Committee, Board of Selectman and Town Administration regarding long term Capital planning
at which Mr. Rafter explained how airport’s work with the FAA in regards to Capital planning to
meet regulatory requirements on items such as pavement maintenance and rehabilitation.
Mr. Rafter presented the draft spreadsheet presented at the meeting indicating the Airport’s
Capital needs through 2024 explaining the next step is to prioritize the needs.
Forms for FY15 Capital Requests are due to the Finance Department by August 28 and will be
shared with the Commission prior to that date.
A brief discussion took place on how the Master Plan process will help identify the capital needs
of the future years.
Ms. Dunton as a Capital Program Committee member noted Mr. Rafter’s format was well
received and the Committee is encouraging the other Town Departments to use it.
081313-2 FAA Airport Capital Improvement Plan – Mr. Rafter reported trying to coordinate a
meeting date to review the 5 year CIP with the FAA and MassDOT is underway.
In reviewing the projects listed in MassDOT’s letter, Mr. Rafter indicated there will be some
adjustments requested to address the badly needed north ramp rehabilitation.
Mr. Drake added in the meeting with the FAA yesterday, they encouraged additional Capital
development requests now that the Master Plan process has begun.
081313-3 STM Discussion – Mr. Rafter reported the possible need for STM Articles for two
items:
Additional funding for the GA/Admin Building should the Airport not be awarded
Liquidated Damages. After brief discussion, Mr. Gasbarro made a Motion to authorize
Mr. Rafter to work with the Town to prepare a Warrant Article for additional expenditure
authorization to be covered by borrowing or other sources. Second by Ms. Topham and
Passed unanimously.
The FAA intends to replace the VASI (Visual Approach Slope Indicator) lights on RW 6
to PAPI (Precision Approach Path Indicator) in the Fall and has requested the Airport
front the approximate cost of $350K for future reimbursement by the FAA. Additionally,
the installation of REILS (Runway End Identifier Lights) and PAPI for Runway 33 can
be completed. Mr. Rafter explained the relocation of these RW 33 lights was part of the
alternate bid portion of the RW 33 Extension project that was not awarded. The FAA
maintains a balance of approximately $300K in the Reimbursable Agreement associated
with RW 33; however, we have closed out the RW 33 project on the Town’s books. Mr.
Rafter is exploring the mechanism used when the original ATM Article was presented for
the RW 33 project. It may allow us to obtain the funds necessary by either transfer or
additional borrowing to allow the project to move forward this fall.
After brief discussion, Ms. Topham made the Motion to authorize Mr. Rafter to work
with the Town to prepare a Warrant Article for an expenditure authorization of $350K
subject to the availability of FAA reimbursement. Second by Ms. Planzer and Passed
unanimously.
022613-2 Master Plan and Sustainability Program Update – Mr. Rafter presented the draft
presentation and display boards for the Open House on August 15th asking for any additional
comments in the next 24 hours.
062513-1 Re-Align and Widen Taxiway (Delta) Connector Update – Mr. Rafter reported the
pre-construction meeting is scheduled for September 9th and the revised FAA Grant Application
is being submitted per the FAA instructions to incorporate the cost to correct the RW 15/33 edge
markings.
8.13.13 Airport Commission Minutes Page 5 of 6
081313-5 MOU with SDO/OSD re Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Program- Mr.
Rafter shared and new MOU document received through MassDot to attempting to make the
OSD a single point of contact in the DBE Program. In reading the document, Mr. Rafter grew
concerns over the language regarding funding. The Hyannis Airport Manager shared the same
concerns and refused to sign. Legal Counsel has also reviewed and has suggested some changes.
Mr. Rafter asked to table the topic till the next meeting to allow discussion with MassDOT
Director, Chris Willenborg, at the Open House. The Commission agreed.
Manager’s Report
Projects Update
Mr. Rafter reported:
Master Plan: Mr. Karberg is organizing noise monitoring stations at different Island
locations. There’s a team on the Island this week performing interviews of different
organizations regarding air traffic needs and demands.
Passenger Facility Charge (PFC): Participated in conference call with the FAA and our
consultant to review the preliminary application. All FAA questions were answered.
The next step is to notify the airlines and hold a consultation meeting.
Reviewed MassDOT website on their State wide pavement evaluation showing
Nantucket’s page indicating its use as a valuable tool to plan pavement maintenance.
When any State funded rehabilitation takes place, this website will be updated. Mr.
Gasbarro pointed out the North Ramp pavement is rated in poor condition and suggests in
planning its rehabilitation, to include the infrastructure for future electrification.
RFP/Bid Status
Still working on drafting engineering and fuel supply RFP’s
Operations Update
Presented jet fuel sales comparing FY12 to FY13 as well as a day-by-day comparison of
July 2012 and July 2013. FY13 was down overall by 3% from FY12.
Reported several positive comments regarding service received have been posted on the
AirNav website.
The Airport has established a Facebook page and a Twitter Account.
Joined Mr. Karberg in meeting with the MA Secretary of Energy, Rick Sullivan and
discussed concerns regarding funding for electric vehicles and potential of conflicts of
rules between sustainable/renewable energies and environmental species acts.
Had a visit from two FAA personnel investigating two airspace review applications. One
for the shooting range and the second for the Gatto land claim.
Sub-Committee Reports
Ms. Topham announced the first meeting of the Town’s Personnel Compensation Committee is
meeting August 14th at 4:00.
Mr. Gasbarro announced the Environmental Sub-Committee has scheduled a meeting for August
22nd at 4:00.
Commissioner’s Comments
Mr. Topham shared a comment she received regarding the Leyland Cypress trees along Airport
Road noting some are leaning over while others a dead.
Mr. Gasbarro suggested sharing the progress report included with the Jacobs invoices with the
entire Commission.
Mr. Drake announced the Open House on August 15th has been posted as a Public Meeting.
Ms. Topham asked if the PAPI/REILS on RW 33 were included in the FAA’s of the Part 139
Inspection Close-Out Report. Mr. Rafter noted they were mentioned as a recommendation but
not a corrective action with a deadline to complete.
8.13.13 Airport Commission Minutes Page 6 of 6
Public Comment
Ms. Dunton re-emphasized her earlier thoughts on agreeing to the Schools reuest for the flat roof
building.
Mr. McLaughlin added a comment concerning the added safety provided by installing the
PAPI/REILS.
Motion to adjourn by Ms. Topham followed by a Second from Ms. Planzer which Passed
Unanimously.
Meeting adjourned at 6:32 PM.
Respectfully submitted,
____________________________
Janine M. Torres, Recorder
Master List of Documents
August 13, 2013 Agenda including Exhibit 1
July 21, 2013 Letter from Public Schools
Nantucket Auto Supply Contract
July 2013 Noise Complaint Summary
FY13 Year End Summary
GA Building Costs Summary dated 7/26/13
Amendment 2 to Nantucket Architecture Group Contract
Amendment 4 to Architectural Consulting Group Contract
Correspondence regarding Sub-Contractor insurance requirements
Kopelman & Paige August 6, 2013 letter to Merchants Bonding Co
Updated FY 2013 EOY Presentation
Long Term Capital Needs Spreadsheet
MassDOT letter dated August 1, 2013 re CIP FY15 – 19
Open House Presentation
Open House Display Board Material
MOU from SDO/OSD re DBE Participation
Jet Fuel Sales Update dated August 13, 2013
Comments from AirNav.com