Town officials have implemented changes to the Stettler Airport’s fee structure and hangar rules.
The airport averages about 1,500 flights annually, & is jointly operated by the town, the County of Stettler, the Stettler Flying Club & the Stettler Stitchers.
Over time, some hangars have shifted from aviation to storage use, which violates lease terms. Town administration says owners will be reminded of these requirements.
The Stettler Flying Club maintains the airport grounds, including mowing, but membership has declined & the group warns it may not be able to continue.
To encourage volunteerism, the Airport Advisory Board suggested a tiered lease system tied to hours of mowing.
Current hangar fees are set at 10 cents per square foot for non-commercial use and 20 cents for commercial use, with no costs for tie-downs or visiting businesses.
Administration is recommending the town keep the current lease rates for hangar owners who log 10 hours of mowing through the Flying Club.
Those who do not would see rates rise to 20 cents for non-commercial & 30 cents for commercial use.
A new $350 annual fee would also be applied to businesses operating at the airport, matching the town’s non-local business licence rates.
Council approved the updated airport policy to reflect these changes during their August 19 meeting.
Author: Landin Chambers
Landin Chambers is a news reporter for Hometown Media Stettler. He has a background in broadcast news, with previous roles in Prince George, Red Deer and Calgary. You may also see him as a cameraman for the Stettler Wildcats and Stettler Imperials. Have a story idea? Email: lchambers@htproductionsmedia.ca
