Historic City News was informed this evening that Florida Governor Rick Scott has appointed 77-year-old Randy Brunson to the Board of the St Augustine and St Johns County Airport Authority. He is appointed for a term beginning June 2, 2014, and ending November 11, 2014.
Brunson, of Saint Augustine, was previously elected to the position in 2004 and completed one term. Together with Executive Director Edward R Wuellner, they are credited with putting the Northeast Florida Regional Airport at St Augustine “in the black” — the taxing authority was removed from the tax rolls and has not returned.
“I was previously elect to this board and served a four year term,” Brunson told Historic City News editor Michael Gold this evening from his home. “I have a passion for aviation and excited to serve. I would invite your support, questions and concerns”
Brunson is the owner of Brunson Custom Homes Inc. and a real estate broker.
This position became available due to an Airport Commissioner resigning. Matt Mercer, a local attorney and private pilot, defeated incumbent Jim Werter in his bid for reelection in 2012. But Mercer stood opposed to bringing commercial jet service into the county, the renaming of the airport, and other steps being taken to enhance the quality and value of the facility. He resigned from office midway through his term.
The Airport Authority is a taxing district within St. Johns County which oversees the airport, its fixed base operator and various commercial leases, which include Northrop Grumman, a barge port and a newly established public park. The authority is a nonpartisan board composed of five members who are elected countywide for four-year terms. Authority board members receive no salary or stipends.