Business View Magazine Dec-2022

119 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 9, ISSUE 12 and promoting aviation on the airfield.” In his current role as a commissioner, Belding is able to work in a position that feeds his love of aviation. He acknowledges, however, that it takes a whole community to make an airport work, and any attention paid to the needs of the airport benefits the county. The relationship is instrumental in ensuring aviation success and extends to potential business opportunities for the county as a whole. The continued attention that is given to airport grounds and maintenance is also a crucial link to ensure both the airport and the county are successful. “We oversee maintenance and repair in terms of building and landscaping,” explains Bret Moore, Director of Recreation for Greene County, “and we are also responsible for the oversight and planning of any events that happen on the field such as drag races or balloon festivals.” About a year and a half ago there was a small fire in the administration building which also housed a district magistrate and the airport restaurant. This event prompted repairs and reconstruction of the building which will reopen with the restaurant under new management in January 2023. Belding points out that in the past, the restaurant was invaluable in terms of getting people to the airport. It served as a magnet for the hobbyist who would fly in for a meal. Hopefully, the new restaurant will create an even bigger draw. Belding is cognizant that growth depends on funding. Fortunately, the county, state, and even the FAA are looking favorably toward growth at the airport. Some of the larger projects include updating their fuel tank to be able to provide Jet-A Fuel as well as Avgas. The perimeter security fence is currently inadequate and needs brought up-to-date. Finally, they are looking to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation for funding to replace and upgrade the runway, taxiway and approach lighting systems. GREENE COUNTY A I RPORT (KWAY) Photo credit: Cassie Menhart Photo credit: Cassie Menhart Photo credit: Cassie Menhart