Wednesday night, in an 8-to-3 vote, the Baxter County Quorum Court voted to abolish the Baxter County Airport Commission.
After the ordinance was read for a third time, Justice of the Peace Bob Nault representing District 7, motioned to table the ordinance for 30 days. Rick Steiner representing District 3, seconded the motion, but the motion failed in an 8-3 vote.
During the discussion, County Judge Kevin Litty said he met with Commissioner Kyle McAlister, who indicated the commission would not accept the terms of the lease without approval from the Federal Aviation Administration.
Chairman Stephen Vester then stepped up and thanked supporters of the commission, and hopes the issue could now be resolved and a new chapter for the airport could begin.
Two residents, Gerald Gaige and Laura Fresco, spoke and urged justices to table the ordinance and listen to their constituents before making a final decision.
The ordinance ultimately passed with eight justices in favor and three against. Those voting against the measure were Steiner, Nault, and Eric Payne representing District 11.
WebReadyTM Powered by WireReady® NSI