New airport board sworn in, replaced board claims they are still recognized entity
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF)- Several new members to the Chattanooga Airport Authority Board have taken their seats.
This was after a new state law went into effect giving the state of Tennessee more authority over who gets to pick board members, giving the state more of a say over local authorities in who gets placed on their board.
That new board was sworn in today, and subsequently voted to terminate the board’s lawsuit against the state of Tennessee over their authority to pick new board members.
That lawsuit was filed by the board who was replaced, arguing that the new law was unconstitutional.
This new structure has been heavily criticized by Chattanooga mayor Tim Kelly, as he has argued that local revenue contributes more to the airport’s budget than the state’s share.
The state legislature argued that the state is the primary funder of airports, and should get to choose most of the board members.
The new members say in spite of the controversy, they want to steer the focus back towards ensuring the success of the airport.
The newly appoint chairwoman, Dr. Shannon Burger, said, “I would love nothing more than alongside the former board figure out what is needed to help them in their transition out. They obviously served our community well and we are grateful for that.”
Burger added that it is an honor to be appointed to this role and looks to further the success of the airport.
The newly appointed vice chairman, Jonathan Cantrell, “We have a wonderful airport. I think it’s a wonderful board and I think with the choices that lie before us. I think we can all work together to have a positive outcome.”
We did get a statement from the board members who were replaced alongside the city of Chattanooga.
They claim that the board’s vote today does not terminate the litigation in question.
They go on to say that they are the only board recognized by the FAA, and that the aviation agency will not determine board recognition until July 27.
They added that the replaced board will continue to fulfill their roles until the FAA or courts rule otherwise.
