Fuel system resilience, fencing improvements and staffing changes advance after Helene impacts
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By Annie Dance | Lake Lure News | Cops & Congress | News & Commentary
RUTHERFORDTON, N.C. — The Rutherford County Airport Authority approved a series of infrastructure upgrades, budget adjustments and a private hangar transfer during their May 4 meeting, with officials citing operational needs highlighted by recent severe weather and ongoing safety concerns.
The board voted to award a contract for a fuel farm generator project, part of a broader effort to strengthen airport operations following disruptions tied to Hurricane Helene. Airport Director Devon Raisch said the upgrade is essential to maintain fueling capability during outages.
“This was something that was essential for us to be able to operate and fuel aircraft,” Raisch said, noting the project will help ensure continued access to fuel deliveries during emergencies.
The contract was awarded to RJ Tenney Electric after officials said the company submitted a bid significantly lower than that of its competitors. While some members noted limited prior experience working with the contractor, officials confirmed the firm meets North Carolina Department of Transportation qualifications and licensing requirements.
In a separate vote, the authority approved a change order for a perimeter fencing project aimed at improving both safety and the airport’s appearance. The upgrade includes installing 10-foot-high fencing topped with barbed wire to reduce wildlife incursions, an issue that has already affected aircraft operations.
Airport officials reported multiple recent encounters between aircraft and wildlife, including a jet maneuvering to avoid a deer.
Federal Aviation Administration guidance has recommended taller fencing with ground-level barriers to prevent animals from entering airfields, and state officials have signaled support for the project pending final approval.
The fencing plan also includes aesthetic improvements, such as black-coated sections near the terminal and hangars to create a more welcoming appearance for visitors. The additional cost, estimated at about $10,100, is already accounted for within existing grant funding, officials said.
The board also approved the private sale of a hangar, allowing the transfer of Hangar 6B from one owner to another for $325,000. Airport leadership said the authority had no immediate need or budget to acquire the property, recommending approval of the transaction.
In financial matters, the authority reviewed a proposed budget request that reflects staffing changes, equipment maintenance needs and fluctuating fuel costs. Raisch said the airport is working to rebalance staffing after recent hires and a retirement, while also ensuring flexibility in fuel purchasing.
The airport typically budgets for about 100,000 gallons of fuel annually, though actual sales can vary depending on tenant aircraft activity and market conditions.
“We’re trying to stay within the market and be fair and equitable to anybody coming in and out,” Raisch said, explaining that pricing is reviewed weekly based on supplier rates and regional comparisons.
Officials said maintaining a buffer in the fuel budget helps offset both price volatility and shifts in demand.
The board approved submitting the updated budget request for further consideration, concluding the public portion of the meeting before entering a closed session under North Carolina law to discuss additional matters.
The meeting reflects a broader push by local officials to reinforce airport infrastructure and operations following recent extreme weather, while continuing to manage growth and safety at the county facility.
For more information, you may view the agenda packet on my DocumentCloud.
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