Barrow County will now take ownership of the county’s airport.
Gov. Brian Kemp signed Senate Bill 331 on Wednesday, May 14, and officially transferred all assets, obligations and responsibilities of the Barrow County Airport Authority to Barrow County Government.
“I would like to offer my sincere thanks and gratitude to Gov. Kemp and the entire Barrow County legislative delegation. Their leadership on this important legislation cannot be understated,” said Pat Graham, Barrow County Commission chairman.
Kemp’s signature and the subsequent transfer comes despite vocal opposition from the city of Winder.
In April, Winder city officials expressed opposition to the transfer, saying in a statement that the “proposal threatens the financial well-being of Winder residents and disregards the city’s vested property interest in the airport facility.”
“The city of Winder has a duty to defend our residents against decisions that could shift financial burdens onto them without their knowledge or consent,” City Administrator Jonathan Lynn said last month. “When there is no outreach, no dialogue, and no acknowledgment of the City’s contributions or concerns, it becomes our obligation to step in to protect our residents.”
The move marks a significant shift in the airport’s governance. A joint Airport Authority for the city of Winder and Barrow County was first approved through legislation on March 25, 1958. That structure changed on March 28, 1986, when an amendment established the Barrow County Airport Authority, effectively ending Winder’s control over the facility.
As Barrow County assumes ownership, the government has appointed Stoney Bangert as Airport Manager. Bangert is a former U.S. Navy pilot with extensive project management experience.
“Stoney’s extensive experience – both in the air and on the ground – will be an invaluable asset as the Barrow County Airport is shaped for the future,” said Srikanth Yamala, County Manager. “Barrow County is committed to investing and supporting this vital community resource, which will only enhance economic opportunities in the county.”
Bangert brings a wealth of experience to the role. He previously served as Operations Manager for RAC Properties in Athens and completed a 27-year career in the U.S. Navy, retiring as a Naval Officer. His background includes both piloting and other aviation-related specialties. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from the University of North Florida and an MBA from the Naval Postgraduate School.
With SB 331 now law, Barrow County leaders say they are looking forward to the next chapter in the airport’s development and its role in boosting the region’s economy.
