NICK GOSNELL
Hutch Post
HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Interim City Manager Mary Grace Clements noted that there will be a change in leadership at the Hutchinson Airport.
"Pieter Miller has been our airport manager for over 10 years," Clements said. "He's done a phenomenal job for us. Pieter's made the decision, he has an opportunity to move his family to Salina. At the time the consultant came in and decided that, not only a manager, but we want to have an Airport Director, because we believe there's potential to grow the airport in ways that will bring in more revenue for the community."
The Airport Director position is currently posted on the city's website.
"We are actively hiring a director and a manager," Clements said. "We've shifted that, that position will now be a direct report to the city manager, out from the Parks Department. I am really, really excited about that."
As a former aviation executive, Clements is confident that the airport can grow, if it is invested in.
"This is an area that I feel very strongly is a growth for the community, in the right manner," Clements said. "We have to be very focused, with how we want to grow the airport. There's work that has to be done, relative to building aprons and concrete and movements, or buildings. What's the first step? The first step for us is getting the right people in place to take it. A new tower is something that we need to look at. There's grant monies and things out there. The opportunity is right. I think the focus being on this area at this time is right for this community. I'm excited to see where that will eventually lead to."
There is no timeline yet on when a hire might be made for that position.
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