Bishop Airport has lingered with a too-short lease and not enough development nor revenue. Now, Inyo officials will try a new tact. They have issued requests for proposals to run the airport.

The proposal calls for two services – to run the restaurant and/ or function as a Fixed Base Operator.

Inyo Public Works Director Ron Chegwidden called the RFP an opportunity to find out about potential management scenarios at the airport. This may uncover a more cost effective way to run things, according to Chegwidden.

"We want to find out about the possibilities," he said. Inyo County does use an FBO at Lone Pine Airport, which, Chegwidden says has eliminated the financial drain. "We all know Bishop Airport needs a stimulus. Someone out there might be able to do this," said the Public Works Chief.

Meanwhile, Inyo County continues to negotiate with LADWP for a longer term lease which will make Federal Aviation Administration funding possible. The County also wants permission to work on alternative development, like light industry, on airport land owned by Los Angeles.

Chegwidden said proposals are due in this Friday. Officials will review the proposals and make a recommendation to the Board.