CHESAPEAKE – Pilots can still use the Lawrence County Airport, even though there is no operator now.

Monday, January 15, 2001

CHESAPEAKE – Pilots can still use the Lawrence County Airport, even though there is no operator now.

County officials assumed airport duties in mid-December, organizing volunteers and others to maintain the grounds and pump gasoline.

Tri-State Aviation Technologies surrendered its lease on the airport by letter to county commissioners dated Dec. 14.

It was a hard decision, operators Jay and Mandy Conley said.

The organization was unable to obtain the financial and public support needed to operate as a non-profit group and create the educational programs it dreamed of doing, said Mrs. Conley, vice president and chief financial officer.

"We spent two years there and it’s not for a lack of effort," she said. "No funds were coming in."

Tri-State Aviation dreamed of building a pilot and airplane mechanic school, involving local schools and colleges in the airport and developing a Tri-State interest in education, Mrs. Conley said.

Key to the plan was the establishment of non-profit status, which lacked backing, she said.

It’s hard to get people involved in a non-profit, and it was probably harder because of today’s Tri-State economy, Mrs. Conley added.

"We appreciate those who did support us," Mrs. Conley said. "And we apologize for not being able to continue our dreams."

A bankruptcy auction was held Saturday.