The Southwest Michigan Regional Airport acknowledges the results of the Aug. 4 primary election, in which voters approved the renewal of the airport millage for an additional 10 years in the City of St. Joseph, Lincoln Charter Township, St. Joseph Charter Township, Benton Charter Township and Royalton Township.
Airport officials thanked all community members who participated in the election process and shared their perspectives. With the millage renewal approved, each of the five participating municipalities will continue to maintain representation on the Airport Authority Board, alongside the City of Benton Harbor.
“Whether you supported or opposed the airport millage renewal, we listened,” said Airport Board President Brandon Cerecke. “The public discussion surrounding this issue provided valuable feedback that will help guide the airport’s future. We remain committed to serving the entire community and being responsible stewards of the public trust.”
The millage renewal will provide continued funding to support airport operations, infrastructure improvements, safety initiatives and economic development efforts throughout Southwest Michigan. The airport supports emergency medical flights, organ transport, Angel Flight missions, law enforcement operations, U.S. Coast Guard activities and emergency response efforts. As the region’s only all-weather airport, it also serves as an important transportation and economic asset, supporting local businesses, tourism and aviation education opportunities.
“The election is now behind us,” said Cerecke. “Our responsibility is to continue providing safe, reliable service and to ensure the airport remains a valuable asset for Southwest Michigan for years to come. We are proud of the dedicated team that serves this airport every day and look forward to continuing our work together as we build on the airport’s success and serve the needs of our region.”
Cerecke also thanked the many individuals and organizations who helped keep voters informed throughout the process. “I would obviously like to thank Nicholas Gunn, Melissa Hahn, Arthur Havlicek of the Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber, Marla Schneider of Cornerstone Alliance, Eleanor Reece of Whirlpool Corporation and the many others for their efforts to provide factual information and community outreach.”
