Commissioners approve funds usage for airport hangar
On Tuesday evening, the Davidson County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved the usage of $1.2 million in sales tax to be used to construct a new hangar at the Davidson County Airport. The funds can be allotted for economic development or education.
In his brief presentation to the board, Davidson County Manager, Casey Smith, shared that there is a waiting list for hangar space. He also expressed the desire to “continue to make our airport a beacon for economic activity in the county.”
Commissioner Todd Yates, a member of the airport’s board, stated he hopes the money can be used to finance additional hangars. Yates also would like to see corporate hangars built.
Karl Van Der Linden, owner and manager of the airport, conveyed to the commissioners that the work they’ve (his crew) has done in the past year had led to this need.
“We’ve created a demand for the airport,” said Van Der Linden. “If you Google hangars in North Carolina, this airport is number three.”
Van Der Linden anticipates being able to purchase a hangar that is between 10,000 and 12,000 sq. ft. Currently, the airport has 50 small box and 10 corporate hangars. The hangars are rented. With their being a high demand for space, Commissioner Don Truell questioned if the possibility of becoming a regional airport has been explored.
Before the vote, Commissioner Steve Shell conveyed why he views the proposal as a win for the citizens of Davidson County.
“I always try to look at tax payers dollar as what is the return on the investment. This is definitely something that is going to bring the money back to us long term. We’re talking about providing money for schools and other infrastructure needs. This is a way to do that without hitting tax payers in the pocket.”
Additional business conducted at the meeting included:
A unanimous approval of a zoning request by Davidson Land Development LLC. The request was to approve the redesignation of 20.96 acres on the northeast side U.S. 64 E, near the Valley Ave. intersection, from rural agriculture to heavy industrial.
Recognition of Clerk of the Board, Debbie Harris, who was named Clerk of the Year by the North Carolina Association of County Clerks in 2019. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the presentation of the award was delayed.
Proclamations approved at the meeting included:
May is recognized as Williams Syndrome Awareness Month and Older Americans Month
May 6 - National Day of Prayer in Davidson County
May 15-20 - National Law Enforcement Week; May 15 - National Peace Officers’ Memorial Day
