Council rules out restoring rental unit, looks to short-term solutions

The County of St. Paul is moving toward a temporary solution at the Elk Point Airport after a fire destroyed the terminal building in December, leaving the site without shelter for pilots and emergency crews.

A notice to airmen (NOTAM) remains in effect, advising that the terminal is unavailable. The airport’s runway and lighting systems continue to operate normally.

Fire cause undetermined

According to information presented at the Jan. 13 County of St. Paul council meeting, the County’s Fire Chief completed an initial origin and cause investigation. The assessment indicated the fire appears to have started in the furnace room before spreading throughout the building. Due to the extent of the damage, the exact cause could not be confirmed.

Rental unit deemed uninhabitable

The fire also impacted a rental trailer located on site, which had relied on power, water, and gas lines running through the terminal building. With those connections compromised, the County has deemed the rental unit uninhabitable and suspended rent payments.

Administration reported that electrical lines between the two structures were damaged in the fire, and the condition of the water and gas lines remains unknown.

Focus shifts to next steps

Council discussed whether restoring utilities to the older rental unit was worthwhile or if efforts should instead focus on cleanup and future planning at the airport site. Administration confirmed there is no regulatory requirement for the airport to have a terminal building, but noted that providing shelter is considered best practice, particularly for emergency situations.

Council members raised concerns about future airport needs, including how any interim solution might fit with longer-term plans.

Medevac access considered

Questions were also raised about whether the lack of a terminal or shelter could impact medevac operations. Administration advised that air ambulance providers have been contacted for input and that further information will be brought back to council if any concerns are identified. Administration noted that medevac services have historically been one of the airport’s primary users and that some level of shelter is advisable for flight crews.

Temporary options on the table

Council discussed the possibility of using a temporary shelter, such as a modular or ATCO-style trailer, as a cost-effective short-term solution. Administration agreed that a modular structure could meet immediate needs while preserving flexibility if airport demand or development plans change in the future.

Council direction

Council passed a motion not to restore utilities to the damaged rental unit and directed administration to research temporary shelter options, including the potential use of a used trailer. The issue is expected to return to council once more information is available on costs, utility requirements, and airport user needs.