For the second time in less than two years, the Yuma International Airport will be looking for a new director.
Floyd Best, who took over after longtime airport executive David Gaines retired in 2005, has resigned because he must return to southern California to care for his wife.
"I have some family medical issues that are going to require my full attention," he said.
Best let the Yuma County Airport Authority Inc. board of directors know about the decision in late June. He will be leaving the post Sept. 30.
Harry Hengl, president of the board of directors, said Best's resignation had only to do with family health matters and nothing to do with his performance at the job. Hengl said Best faced a steep learning curve taking over for Gaines, but he had dealt with it and had been productive.
"Floyd seemed to be getting up to speed and accomplishing some things," Hengl said. "It's too bad he had to go."
During its special meeting Tuesday night, the airport board was scheduled to consider authorizing Hengl to enter into a contract with Boyden Global Executive Search to find a new director. Hengl said the board used the same Maryland-based firm to find Best. Gaines retired in December 2004 but stayed on until his replacement was found.
Best was hired in May 2005 and took over officially on Aug. 1 of that year. He had previously been the director at McClellan-Palomar Airport in Escondido, Calif.
Hengl said the biggest issue facing the airport is its ongoing negotiations to buy about 80 acres west of the airport to expand the general aviation opportunities.
Best said he plans to help out in the search for a replacement in any way he can. He hopes the board can hire someone soon, so he could help acclimate him or her. "I think this is a great little airport. It's a real asset to the community," he said.
Gaines' retirement proved to be short-lived. Earlier this year, he was appointed chief executive officer of the Mohave County Airport Authority and executive director of Laughlin-Bullhead International Airport in Bullhead City, according to the Mohave Valley News.
When asked if he might return to airport management, Best said it would all depend on the health of his family. "I would have liked to have stayed and contributed," he said. "But sometimes things don't work out as you plan."
Copyright: The Sun -- 7/20/06
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