Priorities and Strategies

By David "Dave" Fortune, Sr.

My priorities and strategies for the Monterey Peninsula Airport District

Air passenger safety, enhancing general and commercial aviation, and working cooperatively with the District's adjoining neighbors (cities and private residents) are my priorities. Being user friendly is also an important objective.

The overall health of air passenger service will not return to the pre-9/11 era until the public can be convinced that an effective, sustainable aviation security program is in place. With a law enforcement background of 30 years, I have worked at every level of government to keep the public safe no matter what the situation. I will continue this effort, working closely with the FAA and the new Transportation Security Agency to ensure that air travelers are fully protected.

I also strongly support the airport's police and fire departments' efforts in making our facility a safe place to visit and conduct business. These are dedicated, highly trained individuals, capable of effectively responding in any emergency situation.

Admittedly, competing with large air service markets is difficult. I believe the Monterey Airport can provide quality, affordable air service to all passengers. Board members and staff have pursued all opportunities to increase air passenger service, including funding a dedicated air service development effort.

General aviation facilities have been upgraded over the past few years. To date, Monterey Airport is home to two of the top 10 general aviation facilities in the nation, according to a survey of business aircraft operators. Additional light aircraft hangars and a new state-of-the-art fuel facility has been added. It is important for me to continue these upgrades in response to local demand for aircraft storage.

It is important for the successful operation of the airport to be a good neighbor to its adjoining residents and the cities of Monterey and Del Rey Oaks. The Board continues to support the soundproofing of homes within the noise footprint, according to federal guidelines. To date, 423 homes have been soundproofed, with plans for an additional 65 homes and a school. This amounts to millions of dollars, all well spent.

In addition, I place a high priority on the clean-up of the ground water contamination from the former use of airport property as a Naval Air Station. I will continue to insist that the federal funding for this clean-up effort be afforded the highest possible priority by the Department of Defense.

In order to continue funding the airport's operational needs, the Airport General Plan for development and expansion must remain on track. Orderly and measured enhancement of the airport's facilities is a vital component in continuing to keep it operationally successful. Working cooperatively with the cities of Monterey and Del Rey Oaks will prove beneficial to all parties.

It is important to recognize that an organization, as a whole, is only as effective and efficient as its individual employees. The Airport District is blessed with a hard-working staff, including the many sub-contract employees and contractors that keep the airport in such top notch shape. The employees are dedicated to providing the best service to our airport clients.

I believe my more than 30 years in government service provides me with the tools to understand the importance of the air transportation system to our nation and local community. We must protect our airline passengers, we must protect our airlines, we must protect our airports, and we must protect the economic system that drives the successful operation of the facility.

I believe my extensive background in performing responsible management oversight in development and implementation of goals, objectives, policies, and priorities qualifies me to continue as a Board member. I have also participated extensively in researching and developing facilities, equipment and maintenance. In addition, my experience includes studying data and other reports to determine trends and make recommendations for changes in organizational and operational procedures.

On November 5, please take the time to vote on all the important issues, and when you do, vote for me, Dave Fortune, Director, Monterey Peninsula Airport District.

Thank you...