Voters approved the formal establishment of a Marshfield Airport Revolving Fund under Article 8, though not without significant pushback regarding the facility’s management. The fund is designed to capture revenues from rent and fuel excise taxes to cover airport-related expenses.

The discussion became contentious when resident Jack Griffin moved to strike salaries and wages from the list of allowable expenses, arguing that Shoreline Aviation is a private company and no town employees work at the airport. Town Counsel Robert Galvin warned that removing the provision could hinder the town if it ever chooses to manage the facility itself. If you eliminate [that section], you've nullified the effect of having a revolving fund. You'll have to come to town meeting for every expense, Galvin said. The amendment to strike the salary language failed in a standing vote of 164-236.

Other residents, including Joe Povich, questioned the financial benefit the town receives from the airport’s Fixed Base Operator (FBO). The FBO is paying a cost that's basically what you would pay for a two-star hotel. This is valuable real estate, Povich said. Despite the concerns, the main motion to establish the fund passed by a majority.

Motion: To establish the Marshfield Airport Revolving Fund.

Vote: Passed