HomeMy WebLinkAboutDoc Smith's Resignation LetterDr. John H. Smith
c/o The Springs at Grand Park
1221 28th Street West Unit 107
Billings, MT 59102
September 25, 2018
Honorable Tom Nelson, Mayor
Cc: Members of the Laurel City Council
Dear Sirs:
Effective 7:00 pm on September 25, 2018, 1 am announcing my retirement as the chairman of the Laurel
Airport Authority, as well as commissioner of the Authority.
For the past 50 years, I have actively worked to promote and build the Laurel Airport. It was a full-time
job including the recruitment of volunteers that would dedicate time to move a project forward.
Thankfully most people were willing to donate lots of time. In addition, we were blessed with Craig
Canfield and the KU Engineering firm who led us through the maze of FAA regulations, planning and
monetary support. They are simply, the best. The airport wouldn't be close to its status today without
those people. I have loved every minute. I'm going to miss them and being part of the next growth
stage.
The airport became an official Authority in 1983. An act was approved in the legislature. Former Laurel
Mayor Larry Herman and I decided this was the only way to moving the airport forward. Project funding
was the issue. With the Authority, the airport could then save money year -after -year, which enabled us
to fund the 10% matching funds for the bigger available FAA money.
I have been very protective of the commissioners that have represented the Laurel Airport Authority.
Until the last nominee, I have recommended every appointee for the last 47 years. My criteria were
very simple — are you willing to donate the time? Are you willing to make the best decisions for the
operation and growth of the Laurel Airport? And when possible, I wanted a Laurel taxpayer. As Laurel
gives the Authority 1 mil annually to help fund operations, l think the board needs Laurel
representation. With my resignation, Laurel taxpayers have no current representation. In addition, the
board needs to consist of some people outside of the airport with no hangar ownership.
1 hope I'm leaving at a good time. As you know, we just finished a $5M N -S runway project. The
ceremony on September 15 was a long time coming. I couldn't have been happier. I want to thank
Brock Williams for all the hard work in organizing the event. For those who attended, we had the
presence of the Montana Air National Guard led by Retired General Brad Livingston. Through one of
their programs, to thank employers for hiring National Guard members, they brought Chinook and
Blackhawk Helicopters. For those lucky folks who received rides, most will never forget the experience.
The presence of the MTANG had another significance. We have been negotiating with them to bring a
66-100 acre base on the north side of the E -W runway. It's a great project for the Laurel Airport and the
City of Laurel. As Yellowstone County grows, the significance of the Laurel Airport is going to increase.
With Logan International's focus on Commercial and Corporate Aviation and Laurel on General Aviation
and National Guard, it's a great thing for Laurel.
I am 88 years old and have lived in Laurel for 80+ years. I want to thank everyone for the opportunity to
give back to the community that I truly love.
Best Regards,
Y'
Dr. John "Doc" Hawley Smith
Chairman Laurel Airport Authority