Potential Airport Takeover Grounded Before Takeoff

The Sedona City Council decisively rejected a proposal to acquire the Sedona Airport from Yavapai County during a special meeting on September 25. This unanimous decision followed a review of a study evaluating airport operations and the feasibility of a city-led acquisition.

The council had previously shown interest in the purchase during its retreat in January 2023. Consequently, city officials commissioned Aviation Management Consulting Group (AMCG) to assess the airport’s financial conditions and the implications of city ownership. AMCG presented its findings on April 30, 2024, recommending acquisition for improved control over non-aeronautical development.

A city survey conducted for the 2024 budget revealed strong public opposition; 80% of respondents were against the city acquiring the airport, even if it proved financially self-sustaining. Prior to the meeting, both the Sedona Aircraft and Hangar Owners Association and the Sedona-Oak Creek Airport Authority Board expressed their opposition, highlighting the risks involved in public ownership. They pointed to studies estimating that mismanagement can cost publicly-owned airports millions annually.

SOCAA board president Pamela Fazzini raised concerns about compatibility with Federal Aviation Administration regulations, questioning whether the city’s vision aligned with those requirements. “The FAA will determine if the city is qualified to become the airport sponsor,” she stated.

City Manager Anette Spickard also expressed skepticism about the proposal, suggesting that collaboration between the city and airport would be more beneficial than ownership. Deputy City Manager Andy Dickey reinforced these views, indicating real liability concerns tied to an airport takeover.

During the meeting, Councilman Brian Fultz sought a definitive stance from members on pursuing the airport’s sponsorship. His colleagues responded with a unanimous thumbs-down, prompting immediate affirmation of the council’s lack of interest in the acquisition.

Public comments echoed this sentiment, with speakers dismissing the feasibility of city ownership. Resident Russell Demaray characterized the AMCG report as superficial, arguing it would be imprudent for the city to accept the financial burdens associated with airport management. Robert Stevens from SAHO highlighted multiple flaws in the assessment, warning that liabilities could potentially bankrupt the city.

As discussions progressed, council members clarified that the proposal had never been a priority. “This is not something that this council at any point was fervently desiring,” Fultz noted. Vice Mayor Holli Ploog and Councilwoman Jessica Williamson echoed his sentiments, emphasizing the lack of expertise regarding airport operations and management.

In conclusion, the council firmly stated its decision not to pursue the acquisition, with Mayor Scott Jablow reaffirming his stance against the takeover. The strong public sentiment against the move appears to have played a crucial role in guiding the council’s decision.