The District of Muskoka will allow Muskoka Airport to operate as an independent corporation separate from the municipality.
This decision comes after District council voted in mid-May to establish a new Municipal Services Corporation, which will allow the airport to operate independently and make business decisions more quickly.
“As Muskoka continues to grow, we need to ensure the airport remains a strong economic driver for our communities,” officials say.
According to District officials, the decision follows more than a year of significant evaluation that included a detailed benefits analysis of the Municipal Services Corporation business model, community engagement, and business planning.
“Establishing the Airport as a municipal services corporation marks a significant milestone in the airport’s evolution,” said Don MacKay, Chair of the Muskoka Airport Board of Directors. “The Board of Directors views this new model as a key step forward that will strengthen the Airport’s long-term sustainability and its potential for growth.”
Officials say Muskoka Airport Inc. (MAI) will assume responsibility for airport operations as a separate entity from the District starting July 1.
However, the municipality will remain the owner of the airport lands. Transition planning is well underway to finalize all governance, operations, and administrative agreements between the District and MAI.
“Council was very careful to consider all the risks and benefits ahead of this decision, as we recognize that the airport is a very important asset to the region,” said District Chair Jeff Lehman. “As an Municipal Services Corporation, airport operations will be more flexible and streamlined, which will support development opportunities and grow business and services at the airport.”
For more information about the process, click here.
