Gates-Eckels/EA RequirementsFred Leistiko
From: Gary.Gates@faa.gov
Sent: Friday, November 13, 2009 12:55 PM
To: Barbara Eckels
Cc: Scott Scott; airport@kalispell.com; citymanager@kalispell.com
Subject: Re: Kalispell City Airport (Eckels Question)
Mr. Eckels,
The following is in response to your questions as referenced below:
1. An airport owner may select a qualified engineering consultant for a period not to exceed
5 years. The owner may choose to re --select a consultant sooner eg. less than 5 years if they
choose.
2. The maximum five year period is a requirement if the airport is seeking federal funds
under the Airport Improvement Program (AIP). We understand that the City is interested in
pursuing federal funds to improve the airport.
3. AIP funding requires that the airport owner secure engineering consultants (planning,
environmental, design etc.) at least every five years if seeking federal funds under AIP. If
the owner is not requesting federal funds than local and state procurement rules would apply.
An environmental document (EA) is generally valid for a period of 3 years, at which time the
documents must be updated if the proposed improvements will be federally funded.
4. There is not a requirement for the airport owner to select a separate firm conducting the
environmental assesment (EA) vs. the engineering design. Neither the FAA nor the City are
obligated to fund the improvements recommended in the EA or planning studies.
Gary M. Gates, P.E.
Airport Engineer and Planner
FAA, Helena Airports District Office
2725 Skyway Drive, Suite 2
Helena, MT 59602
Barbara Eckels
<barb@guitarmusi
cman.com>
11/12/2009 10:24
PM
To
Gary Gates/ANM/FAA@FAA
cc
Scott Scott
<m_axwellsnortsnort(@hotmail.com>
Subject
Eckels Question
RE: City Council Agenda Item (This monday) City Airport Request for Qualifications --
Consulting Firm Two firms answered the city's request for qualifications for an aviation
I
consultant; Robert Peccia & Associates and Stelling Engineers. The FAA requires that
engineering contracts and planning services be re -bid every five years
Hi Gary
I am seeking a quick fact check.
1. Is the following quote from the city attorney true? "engineering contracts and planning
services be re -bid every five years"
2. What are the details?
3. Do you really require that
"engineering contracts and planning services be re -bid every five years even if the airport
may not be expanded or be closed?
What is the reason behind this claim?
4. Also, isn't it a conflict of interest for a firm to do the EA and also bid on the project?
Please answer these questions (or have one of your deputies answer it) tomorrow. Time is of
essence.
Thank you
Steve
z