Monroe's new airport director wants to create an "aerotropolis"
Posted:
Updated:
Sep 14, 2012 09:46 AM
By Victoria Shirley
MONROE, La. (KNOE 8 News) - After a several months and multi-thousand dollar search, the Monroe Regional Airport finally has a permanent leader. Interim airport director Ron Phillips will continue as the leader of the airport. "Sometimes what you are already looking for, you already have." said Monroe Mayor Jamie Mayo.
City leaders say he was the most qualified out of the group because of his experience and familiarity with the area. "We often talk about hitting the ground running but he's already been running because he's been in the position." said Mayo.
"Well the first thing that went through my head was just being grateful, just being very appreciative of being given that opportunity to continue the work what we've started." said director Ron Phillips.
The nationwide search for a new airport director cost the city 27 thousand dollars and although the quest didn't turn up anybody new, Mayor Mayo says the fee wasn't a waste of money. "I see the 27 thousand dollars as an investment to the city of Monroe to make sure we looked and evaluated everyone who was out there and available."
Phillips will continue to oversee construction for the second phase of the airport, which includes a baggage claim area and car rental building. Construction for the second phase should be completed by November. He also wants to transform the area around the airport into an economic engine by inviting business leaders to help develop it. "I now have an opportunity to not only be a part of developing that vision and mission for the airport, but not only develop it but seeing it come into fruition."
Phillips was chosen out of 48 initial candidates and five finalists.
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