Stephenville’s airport closure sparks outrage as broken promises, legal woes, and power disconnection cripple operations, leaving residents seeking answers.
Long-Time Hopes Grounded in Stephenville
The once-thriving Stephenville Airport now lies dormant, reduced to a strip of pavement and a symbol of community frustration. Once holding international status, the airport was recently downgraded to a registered aerodrome and shut down entirely after Newfoundland Power disconnected electricity over unpaid bills. For residents like Bob Byrnes, a former airport board member and local business leader, the situation is dire. “It’s a terrible travesty,” he told CBC News.
Legal, Financial Troubles Mount
Since businessman Carl Dymond took over the facility two years ago, the airport has spiraled into legal and financial trouble. Millions in lawsuits now surround the operation, and none of Dymond’s initial promises—including a $200 million investment, thousands of jobs, or renewed passenger service—have materialized. The airport has now become a symbol of failed ambition and broken trust for the west coast town.
Leadership Faces Scrutiny Over Decision-Making
Mayor Tom Rose, who spearheaded the deal with Dymond, acknowledges the situation is at its worst but maintains that the town council had limited options. “It was Carl Dymond or nothing,” Rose stated, defending the lack of a contingency plan. However, critics like former councillor Lenny Tiller, who resigned over the deal, argue that concerns were ignored. “There were red flags,” Tiller said, adding that pressure to support the plan silenced dissent within council chambers.
Residents Express Anger, Disappointment
On the streets of Stephenville, emotions run high. “Plenty of promises, but nothing came of them,” resident Paul Green remarked. Others echoed the sentiment, saying the town missed a vital opportunity to revive the airport and boost the local economy. With no progress on promised infrastructure like a $10-million fire hall or runway lighting, many believe they were misled.
Outside Interest Could Offer a Lifeline
Hope may still flicker on the horizon. Nova Scotia’s Celtic Air Services has expressed interest in managing the airport—not buying it—but sees “untapped potential” in Stephenville. CEO David Morgan said his team is ready to act if the situation changes. However, Dymond reportedly rejected the idea, and the Newfoundland and Labrador government has yet to take an active role.
Calls Grow for Provincial Intervention
Opposition Leader Tony Wakeham, MHA for Stephenville-Port au Port, believes the province must now intervene. “We need to get the government involved and find out what the options are,” Wakeham said, stressing that essential services like air ambulances and training programs have been disrupted. Despite mounting public pressure, Industry Minister Steve Crocker reaffirmed that the airport remains a private matter, offering no commitment from the province.
A Town at a Crossroads
As the future of Stephenville’s airport hangs in limbo, the town stands divided—caught between regret for past decisions and a desperate search for new solutions. Mayor Rose insists the council acted in the town’s best interest, but with no power, no flights, and no progress, residents are left asking: where do we go from here?
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