The Only Aviation Experienced Candidate For St. Johns County Airport Authority Group 3

St. Augustine Airport, previously known as Northeast Florida Regional Airport, stands as one of the largest business assets in St. Johns County. Recently, a hangar expansion project was completed, generating over 250 jobs from a $2.1 million investment. With the current mix of private, military, and commercial aviation, we have a significant opportunity to foster not only temporary jobs but also long-term economic growth. As part of the Airport Authority, I am committed to cultivating a pro-business environment that attracts investment. Given that only an estimated 18-22% of property tax revenue comes from commercial and industrial properties, the county's tax base is vulnerable due to its residential dominance. This is where the St. Augustine Airport can make a substantial impact: through composite manufacturing, groundbreaking Advanced Air Mobility aircraft, and increased usage. With an 8,000-foot runway, St. Augustine is well-equipped to accommodate large aircraft, creating ample opportunities for the expansion of maintenance centers, cargo, and defense and avionics companies, such as our existing partner Northrop Grumman. Just miles away, St. Augustine High School features an Aviation & Aerospace Academy along with a dual enrollment program by Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. As an alumnus of these programs and a former board member of the St. Johns County School District's Academy of Aviation & Aerospace Advisory Board, I recognize the importance of educational partnerships. These students represent ideal candidates for the incoming job growth. Aviation-related jobs are robust and secure, requiring skilled employees who are not easily outsourced. For those interested in the exciting developments at the airport, including the upcoming projects launching soon, we encourage you to contact us for more information.

The St. Johns County Airport Authority has the power to increase your tax millage rate. I proudly stand by the current board and applaud their successful efforts to maintain a 0 millage rate, which protects the affordability of homes. Instead of raising taxes on St. Johns County residents who are already facing rising costs, I will collaborate with the board to secure business investment along with state and federal grants. To achieve these grants, it’s essential to have a representative on the board who has built strong relationships with both elected officials and transportation leaders. In my experience leading political organizations and a non-profit (See "About"), I have developed a strong rapport with our advocates at the county, state, and national levels. I not only possess the aviation background to understand the needs of our airport, but I also have the political savvy to make it happen. I will leverage the expanding Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) sector to boost investment. St. Augustine Airport should be able to thrive without increasing your property tax. For more information, feel free to contact us.

Part of growing the positive economic footprint of the airport is diversifying the types of aeronautical activity taking place. Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) is the latest technological breakthrough in aviation. Both the Florida Department of Transportation and Governor Ron DeSantis have led the initiative to position Florida as a national leader in this emerging sector. Many of these aircraft are hybrid or electric and require modern infrastructure. By incorporating this innovative technology in the Airport Authority's expansion conversations, we set ourselves up for significant business investment, alongside major state and federal grants. Managed properly, these funds can be utilized to enhance the airport's infrastructure and community value. This technology creates new jobs in St. Johns County, including positions for pilots, managers, and technicians. For example, AAM aircraft are ideal for air taxis and emergency rescue, helping to reduce traffic on the roads. Rather than driving to Orlando or Jacksonville for your flight, our community will soon have the option to take an AAM aircraft and skip the line. Additionally, AAM aircraft are estimated to cost around $13 to fly, significantly lowering the expenses for life-flights and keeping more money in your wallet in case of tragedy. For more information, feel free to contact us.