Blythe Airport

The 2013/2014 Riverside County Grand Jury (Grand Jury) investigation revealed minimal security at the Airport. According to testimony, the Airport has never had an electronic security gate at the entrance of the Fixed Base Operator (FBO) office building, which makes it accessible 24/7 to any unauthorized users. Improper fencing at the entrance of the FBO office building results in lax security, as it allows pedestrian access to the premises without proper verification. Asphalt/Concrete

The Grand Jury’s investigation noted the extremely poor condition of asphalt on the Airport grounds. In addition, the concrete seam sealant is in disrepair. A substantial amount of the sealant has become brittle, loose and has the potential to damage aircraft and could cause bodily injury from debris when the aircraft engines are started. (See Attachment “A”) Long Term Living Quarters

Upon inspecting the Airport hangar, the Grand Jury observed a recreational vehicle (RV) parked in the hangar. The Airport manager stated he resides in the RV. According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Airport Compliance Manual Order 5190.6B, Chapter 20.5 (b, c), and states in part: Under Grant Assurance 19, Operation and Maintenance, airport sponsors will not cause or permit any activity or action that would interfere with intended use of the airport for airport purposes. Permanent living facilities should not be permitted at public airports because the needs of airport operations may be incompatible with residential occupancy from a safety stand point. However, other than the performance of official duties in running an airport, or FBO, the FAA does not consider permanent or long-term living quarters to be an acceptable use of airport property at federally obligated airports. This includes developments known as air parks or fly-in communities, and any other full-time, part-time, or secondary residences on airport property even when co-located with an aviation hangar or aeronautical facility. While flight crew or caretaker quarters may include some amenities, such as beds, showers, televisions, and refrigerators, these facilities are designed to be used for overnights and resting periods, not as permanent or even temporary residences for flight crews, aircraft owners or operators, guests, customers, or the families or relatives of same. Metered Fuel Tanks

Upon examination of the two above ground stationary fuel tanks at the Airport, it was observed there is a need for painting these two fuel tanks. According to the Air Quality Management District (AQMD) DAS was informed of this finding on April 23, 2013. The two stationary fuel tanks are owned by the County, but DAS is responsible for all maintenance as stated in the lease agreement. Riverside County Weights and Measures (Weights and Measures) last certified the accuracy of the fuel meters in 2006 and placed a certified seal on them. The Grand Jury inspected the expired (2006) Weights and Measures certified tamper-proof seals on the three fuel meters (two stationary fuel tanks and one fuel truck). There was no visible seal on the portable trailer tank. According to testimony and County Ordinance No. 599 (as amended through 599.8), Weights and Measures is required to inspect County airport fuel meters annually. (See Attachment “B”) Airport Hangar

During the two visits to the Airport, the Grand Jury observed the poor condition of the hangar that was built in 1942. The hangar is in desperate need of renovation on the exterior. (See Attachment “C”) The Grand Jury observed a “Wolfe Aviation” sign mounted on the hangar from the previous FBO. County EDA Aviation Website

Upon review of the County EDA Aviation website it was noted that Blythe Airport information was “coming soon.” County EDA Aviation/DAS Lease

In 2010 the lease between the County EDA Aviation and DAS was signed with reservation by DAS. DAS took over the Wolfe Aviation lease completing the remaining terms of the lease with the City of Blythe. In 2011 DAS was told they had no recourse other than to sign the lease. According to sworn testimony, many issues were discussed in this meeting with County EDA Aviation and DAS, with no resolution. 4