Horizon will end flights to, from NB

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By Jo Rafferty, Staff Writer
Sunday, June 29, 2008 | 124 comment(s)

It couldn’t have come at a worse time.

Blaming costly fuel and a passenger shortage, Horizon Air announced Friday it would end flights between North Bend and Portland on Oct. 11.

The decision dampens a pair of celebrations planned at Southwest Oregon Regional Airport. The airport’s new $20 million terminal will have its grand opening on Tuesday, and SkyWest Airlines will celebrate its first San Francisco flight the following Monday.

“The timing just sucks,” said Mike Lehman, Coos County Airport District’s commission chairman. Reached by phone Friday afternoon, Lehman had just found out an hour earlier while browsing the Internet.

“It smacks you on the side of the head,” he said.

The passengers who rely on SkyWest will suffer the most.

“With no flight to Portland,” Lehman asked, “how do we serve our taxpayers?”

Horizon’s 12 North Bend employees will be offered other jobs, but they could be anywhere in the nation, Horizon’s vice president of marketing and communication, Dan Russo, said.

“Any job that they’re qualified for in Horizon’s system — where they have openings,” Russo said by phone Friday afternoon.

Passengers buy more than 70,000 tickets on the Portland route’s four daily flights each year, according to Airport Executive Director Gary LeTellier. Now the closest service to Portland will be in Eugene.

“Though disappointed, we understand that Horizon’s management is being forced to restructure the airline relative to the current economic downturn and the rising cost of fuel,” LeTellier said.

But Lehman said there could be a spark of hope that SkyWest might add a northbound flight and expand its southbound service.

“My understanding is they put it in the planning process,” he said. “It will take some time.”

In the meantime, Lehman said the airport will freeze hiring and new projects. An airport commission meeting was called for 10 a.m. Wednesday in the mezzanine of the new terminal building, 1100 Airport Lane.

Lehman said there is a direct link to fuel prices, and officials had feared something like this for months. Another big factor was the drop-off of winter tourism on the South Coast.

“I’m sure they looked at it and said, ‘Why go through those headaches?’” he said.

Russo agreed.

“High fuel prices are definitely aggravating the situation,” Russo said. “On a year-round basis, we’ve just always had trouble making money on the route.”

Although the impact on the North Bend airport is significant, Lehman said it won’t be calamitous.

“Long-term, we’ll probably be OK,” Lehman said. “Short term — it’s just emotional. It’s not panic time. It’s just doggone-it time.”

The airline has been serving Southwest Regional Oregon Airport since 1982.

“There are very big swings there,” Russo said. “It hasn’t generated a sufficient return for the investment of flying there.”

Across the nation, Horizon is undergoing a fleet transition — getting rid of its Q200 aircraft that seat 37 passengers and switching to Q400s, which hold 76. The smaller aircraft should be gone by the end of October, replaced by the larger, more fuel-efficient ones. Russo said there were concerns over the smaller airports filling the larger airplanes.

Flights between Portland and Klamath Falls were canceled for the same reasons — fuel prices and seasonal slowdown. Horizon has 10 employees in Klamath Falls, who have been offered the  option of positions elsewhere.
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Steve P. wrote on Jul 24, 2008 10:11 AM:

I hope to see some of you at the board meeting today (Thursday July 24th 2008) at 5:30pm at the Airport.

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Steve P. wrote on Jul 23, 2008 4:03 PM:

It is the politician side of him (Lehman) I don't trust.

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JUSTICE wrote on Jul 22, 2008 2:27 PM:

Don't know about them two commissioners,but do know how arrogant MIKE LEHMAN is.Him being a attorney and all, he probably wrote the book on it.

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Steve P. wrote on Jul 22, 2008 1:11 PM:

I don’t know about Briggs, but your opinion of the other one is nearly unanimous in this part of the country. A board full of ex politicians is always a board destined to disappoint the taxpayers. So that makes at least two more who need to be on the short list.

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c.b.businessman wrote on Jul 22, 2008 11:29 AM:

I agree with getting rid of some of the Airport Commissioners, especially the two most arrogant and know-it-all ones Briggs and Brunnell.

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Steve P. wrote on Jul 21, 2008 9:47 PM:

I asked the same question. No answer.

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Coos Bay Resident wrote on Jul 19, 2008 4:20 PM:

MR. LEHMAN, Correct me if I'm wrong, but I understand the airport board raised the landing fees as well. We do need new blood on the airport board. Why was it a private party on July 1st anyways?

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X-Coos Bay Resident wrote on Jul 18, 2008 6:35 PM:

Ya know there is one thing that really is neened MORE than any other IS a good wage pay job...... With-out these Coos Bay/North Bend WILL become a retirement community and eventually with out JOBS nobody will want to live there

Nobody wants to keep paying WELFAIR



Portland is NOT the only deep water port. CB/NB will not wave one if someone doesnt get there head outa you know where

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Do Something wrote on Jul 16, 2008 8:35 AM:

Oregon law, contained in Chapter 457 of Oregon Revised Statutes (ORS 457), describes the conditions
that make an area eligible for urban renewal as "blight". Conditions of blight include excessive
underdeveloped or vacant land, buildings that do not meet code requirements or are economically
obsolete, inadequate street/sidewalks, utilities or public facilities (e.g. parks or parking) platting that is
not appropriate for the planned use, and environmental problems.

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Bay Area Optimist wrote on Jul 15, 2008 11:40 AM:

RE Coos Bay Kid's comments... you are absolutely right... need new blood in elected positions and people with vision... not just the same old re-treads... maybe all of the elected officials in the area will do the right thing and resign from office or not run again so we can move on...

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Coos Bay Kid wrote on Jul 15, 2008 9:41 AM:

CB/NB is an eye sore. The welfare atmosphere dwells in that area. The mindset of barely getting by and economic stagnancy glares at you as you enter the area. Leadership decisions take too long and have a 99% failure rate.
This area needs new leadership and a new economic vision. Then the population has to change/take ownership of their behavior in a positive way. Individuals have to look in the mirror and not like what they see and make a change in their own lives. Stop gambling, smoking, drinking, doing/dealing drugs and get a job/work hard. Stop blaming other people or government for your problems.
Have a nice day....

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PT Big City Guy wrote on Jul 15, 2008 7:01 AM:

I live here in CB 6 months a year, and a city witha population over 8 million the other 6 months, The terminal should have been built, what you should be mad at is the satet of CB/NB. Travelers don't want to come to a dilapidated city. The roads here stink, the buildings and sidewalks are crumbling, and most people are on Welfare. N o offense, but clean up your city and people will come. It has potential to bea haven, but its a dump.

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Carl wrote on Jul 13, 2008 10:34 PM:

Why cant thy get american airlines to fly in here?? i could sure use a daily non-stop flight to New york. my favorite cafe is there


even i i was the only one on the flights it would still be worth it

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Steve P. wrote on Jul 12, 2008 8:12 AM:

This isn't Denver!

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Esya wrote on Jul 11, 2008 1:28 PM:

The comment about an albatross reminded me that there still is hope. Denverites thought that the expensive, fancy new airport was an albatross--but it does bring in money now. Horizon's loss will be someone else's gain.

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Kay wrote on Jul 11, 2008 10:34 AM:

lw wrote on Jul 11, 2008 6:26 AM:
My my Kay, that got your blood boiling!! For your information I'm very upset about what is going on at the airport. I have a family member who works for Horizon and will be getting laid of in October. I know a lot more about what is going on in the inside then you presume to know. Trust me you don't have a clue!!

You proved my point. Thanks!

And I'm very sorry your family is facing this crisis. I really am. It didn't have to happen. Seems the Board opened the loophole for Horizon to get out. Put that anger where it belongs.

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lw wrote on Jul 11, 2008 6:26 AM:

My my Kay, that got your blood boiling!! For your information I'm very upset about what is going on at the airport. I have a family member who works for Horizon and will be getting laid of in October. I know a lot more about what is going on in the inside then you presume to know. Trust me you don't have a clue!!

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Kay wrote on Jul 10, 2008 9:57 AM:

To LW and the rest of you airport supporters that are tired of our complaints? Too durn bad, you ain't seen nothing yet. Stop insulting us and fess up, This Airport Board has created a real albatross, and all the lipstick in the world won't hide the fact it's a pig. Back off and stop insulting us. Deal with the issues. We aren't going to shut up now, we're going to hold your feet to the fire. Where they belong.

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Kay wrote on Jul 10, 2008 9:55 AM:

LW says:
LW wrote on Jul 9, 2008 10:44 PM:
I think Kay and Lurker need to get together for a cup of coffee and hash their difference alone. Personnally I'm tired of seeing Kays opinions so many times!! We get the picture, don't you have anything better to do then sit on a computer all day? Go on vacation, I think we all need a break!

Wow, testy testy, testy there aren't we? Well guess what? I've every right to challenge these local bozos who continue to throw our money around. And do I have anything better to do than sit here a post? Naaawwww..................

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Steve P. wrote on Jul 10, 2008 8:05 AM:

Whoa there, let's hold up a bit. This is turning into a personal snipping blog. The issue is whether we need to recall the board and demand LeTellier's immediate dismissal. There are certainly grounds based on his performance. I am in the final stages of preparing a recall effort. Legal council advises against a law suite, but recommends a recall.

I am aware also of Mr. Lehmen's past political endeavors and his current employment.

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Cant beat em Join em wrote on Jul 10, 2008 8:05 AM:

KAY/JANICE/ELIZABETH are all of the same old same.
I too believe that they have nothing better to do but satisfy themselves on the blogs.
Cute huh, Honey?

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LW wrote on Jul 9, 2008 10:44 PM:

I think Kay and Lurker need to get together for a cup of coffee and hash their difference alone. Personnally I'm tired of seeing Kays opinions so many times!! We get the picture, don't you have anything better to do then sit on a computer all day? Go on vacation, I think we all need a break!

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Resident wrote on Jul 9, 2008 6:13 PM:

World Reader--I totally agree with you. An exchange of ideas is one thing that takes place in the classroom. And, as my college-age daughter said, "You can't believe how smart other people are." I appreciate that fact too.

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RECALL wrote on Jul 9, 2008 2:29 PM:

TO LURKER::::No whining ,bit...,or moaning here.Im well awhere as to who Lehman is employed by,on a daily basis.Perhaps you should do some reseach yourself.It appears your connected with Lehman somehow,with your postings.Until you finds out the facts, or want to post the facts,you should consider laying down by your dish.

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world reader wrote on Jul 8, 2008 8:42 PM:

We do write letters to the Editor but only a very few get published, so this ia another avenue for people to get their ideas out. I think it is good to hear others ideas and feelings.

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Kay wrote on Jul 8, 2008 1:26 PM:

Seems some of the posters are trying to run off those of us who don't agree with them. Oh and Annon Too? Don't agree with yer comment re: mas. isn't productive? You're not doing it right honey.

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Lurker wrote on Jul 8, 2008 11:01 AM:

Thanks, Kay! As a matter of fact…I AM! God loves all of you, but I am her favorite. Back to lurking and laughing…

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anonymous too wrote on Jul 8, 2008 11:01 AM:

Posting anonymous blogs is a little like masturbation, it feels good but, does not accomplish much. Agree with Lurker - exchange ideas but, put your name to it and put it in Letter to Editor.

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Kay wrote on Jul 8, 2008 8:37 AM:

So Lurker? A little used to telling others what to do? Humm..... well guess what big guy? We're here to listen to each other, take yer facts and figures and don't come here if you can't handle the free exchange of "IDEAS". I know it's kinda scary for those used to authority.

Sorry bout that.

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tima frequent visitor to the bay area from los angeles wrote on Jul 7, 2008 11:19 PM:

It is simply a drag, since I have been a loyal Alaska/Horizon passenger for years.However, for me, at least,I can still come to the Bay Area from San Francisco; it may even take me less time!...Perhaps, one of my fellow commentators was correct: perhaps Horizon could not get the same sweet-heart deal SkyWest was reputed to have gotten. Read NYTimes reporter Clay Johnston's book on the free lunches big business receives from parastic political officals to set up shop with tax holidays, cheap land &c.

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feeling trapped wrote on Jul 7, 2008 12:57 PM:

wow- greyhound left, now this? with gas prices so high, how are we supposed to leave this area? no trains, either...keep all the p[oor people in one area? huh.

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Thomas wrote on Jul 6, 2008 3:48 PM:

"Flights between Portland and Klamath Falls were canceled for the same reasons"

If so, then Coos really needs to rethink itself, ...

... but that's not very likely with our Cargo Cult mindset dominanting "thought".

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For Lurker wrote on Jul 6, 2008 1:58 PM:

Lurker - You may want to take notice of the comments here, not only about the airport but, about our county commissioners, port commissioners, city councilors and other elected representatives. The people of this county have had enough of the hair brain plans and schemes with little to no public input. We are sick and tired of our elected boards and bodies treating us as if we are a nuisance. The anger and resentment voiced here comes from the frustration of knowing that our hard earned money once again is not being wisely spent.

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Joe Sixpack wrote on Jul 6, 2008 12:28 PM:

Come on North Bend build a train station to get rides up the coast to amtrack. You build they will come and go.

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Sad but So True wrote on Jul 6, 2008 11:20 AM:

I hear you Common Sense & wish these ignorant local so-called leaders would get out more (Visit a successful state as Hawaii, Florida, Arizona, etc) & get educated on how it works in the REAL world. These fools are like a Dog chasing it's tail, so close (In their OWN little mind), yet so far away!

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Solutions wrote on Jul 6, 2008 1:01 AM:

Does anyone have one? Lots of people are bashing and smashing all sorts of people here... Do you have any answers? Can you say anything constructive?

Here's one... call up Horizon and United (skywest) both and tell them you'll be flying out of NB... book some trips... show them they'll make money here.

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Turn off the blog wrote on Jul 5, 2008 5:59 PM:

Too many people posting stupid comments and don't have a clue. Stop whinning. Get a life!!

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TO LURKER wrote on Jul 3, 2008 7:14 PM:

LOOKS LIKE YOU JUST JOINED THE REST OF THE SLACKERS, NOTHING TO DO BUT POST COMMENTS. BOY WE ARE WORTHLESS AREN'T WE. STAYING INFORMED AND WANTING TO KNOW WHAT OTHER PEOPLE THINK OF WHATS GOING ON IN OUR COMMUNITY IS REALLY A WASTE OF TIME I GUESS ACCORDING TO YOU. AND SOME PEOPLE JUST MIGHT NOT KNOW THAT LEHMAN IS AN ATTORNEY, IF THATS WHAT HE CALLS HIMSELF, HA HA HA. SOME PEOPLE HAVE NEVER NEEDED ONE.....

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FYI wrote on Jul 3, 2008 12:02 PM:

Trust me, I have no reason to defend the Port but did you all know that the Port of CB no longer runs/owns the airport? I just noticed all the comments about the "Port" and thought I'd point out that the airport is it's own Special District now. (Not affiliated with the Port anymore). Like I said just pointing it out, not trying to defend anyone. The Airport is responsible for it's own actions now.

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Citizen wrote on Jul 2, 2008 10:42 PM:

Does DeFazio support drilling for oil? Perhaps what our representatives should be doing is looking for real answers to the problems all business face right now. Gas prices are going to push companies to make these kind of decisions. You can't have it both ways.

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Whats next wrote on Jul 2, 2008 9:15 PM:

Maybe they will bulid a new train station next? Is the train on the way?

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Nancy wrote on Jul 2, 2008 3:06 PM:

So now we have a bright and shiny terminal, and the very idea of a private party to celebrate what is clearly a disaster is totally beyond me. This fiasco really doesn't call for a big old party. A wake would be more in keeping with the occasion. I predict that in another year there will be no planes going in either direction. Since we're all too poor to fly it probably won't cause much of a hardship for us isolated yokels.

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next wrote on Jul 2, 2008 3:00 PM:

I heard the US govt is going to drain the bay and ship it to Saudi Arabia. sigh............

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Common Sense wrote on Jul 2, 2008 12:00 PM:

Bad business.....remodeling & expanding shouldn't mean increased rents/fees for LOYAL customers like Horizon was for this airport for MANY years! Another example of Oregon's failed attempt to succeed by doing business BACKWARDS...keep increasing fees until businesses leave & then say...I don't understand why it didn't work!

JOKE:
What do you get when you put Coos County Airport District commissioners together with Coos Bay counsel members & Port commissioners?

ANSWER:
BROKE

P.S. I heard a rumor that those above 3 branches of Government were coming out with a Best Seller book...
Titled:
"How to succeed in keeping Oregon in poverty in order for me to be NEEDED & in CONTROL"

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Kay wrote on Jul 2, 2008 9:58 AM:

OPINIONS ARE LIKE NOSES SAYS:

Kay, from your writing you appear to be an intelligent, well-informed person. But, you really need to get a life outside of these comments and The Forum. Seriously, over 900 postings since March!!??!! Geez!

Why I'm flattered beyond reason, you spent HOW much time researching my posting record?

Maybe I should spend more time with my hand out begging for more of the taxpayers' money?

Must be love............

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Esya wrote on Jul 2, 2008 8:08 AM:

I have been wanting to find a way to get in and out of Coos Bay easily for sometime. The Horizon schedule was practical; the SFO flights are set up for residents of Calif to do business and go home. They are not set up for residents or tourists of NB/CB area to bring money in. No train, no bus, no ships, no plane--it all makes a very hard sell.

Sadly I'd just got an airline membership to use with the Horizon flights. Instead NB has trash cans that were above market rate even for public buildings.

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Steve P. wrote on Jul 2, 2008 7:46 AM:

I was there also, but without an invitation I sat in the cold on the bench and watched the elite of Coos Bay Que up for a chance at the wine and munchies (Why was alcohol served?). There were some uninvited guest allowed in based on who they knew. I guess I don't know enough people. Why were all the kids there (With alcohol!), couldn't the upper-crust of Coos Bay afford a baby sitter. I did get accused of being a liberal while visiting with one of the attendees outside for a smoke. Let's clear that up right now. I am a pro gun Conservative with lots of time to watchdog those spending the taxpayers money.

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At The Party wrote on Jul 2, 2008 6:28 AM:

I was there, very hard to clap for any of the speakers, however Mr. Letellier did say that this was his 7th or 8th terminal he has built and hopefully his last... after this fiasco I think that's a forgone conclusion! I did clap then!

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LW wrote on Jul 1, 2008 10:38 PM:

Instead of building a new aiport why didn't they just add on and modernize the airport we had. Instead of spending 20 million they could have spent 2 million and this whole thing wouldn't seem like such a waste. With the new aiport opening on Thursday this could have been an exciting time for the area, what a shame!!!

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BEN wrote on Jul 1, 2008 6:10 PM:

Upon arriving from Portland via Horizon Air, on a FULL plane I learn that with the new terminal opening, there will be no Portland flights after Oct.08?
Is it a coincidence that SkyWest is in and Horizon is out? NO!
Horizon wanted the same "DEAL" that SkyWest was given.

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OUTSIDE LOOKING IN wrote on Jul 1, 2008 4:45 PM:

MR.LEHMAN:It appears you made your posting during regular business hours.Does your employer know, of this company time that you are using on behalf of their wages to you. Just would like to know that you do every by the book,including the airport fiasco. :

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stuck in town wrote on Jul 1, 2008 4:02 PM:

To Esya, I am with you, My family wants me to get out of here, with no planes to Seattle nonstop, without changing in Portland was bad enough, but now no planes period. I am getting to old to drive to Seattle all by myself and also there is nothing here for old people to do. Can't even go to the mall and watch people, because there are no people there to watch. Nothing for me here anymore at all. I know a lot of people that would fly to Seattle but no planes going that way, now just south, for a while anyway. Tourist flying in here and renting cars to enjoy the coast is even gone now. Boy are we isolated, and its scary to not have a way out of town if you don't drive. I hope that PORTER LINE THAT HAS A VAN TO EUGENE GETS A BIGGER BUS TO TAKE MORE PEOPLE THERE TO CATCH PLANES, TRAINS OR BUSSES. THEY WOULD SURE HAVE BUSINESS NOW FOR SURE.

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RECALL wrote on Jul 1, 2008 3:49 PM:

TO STEVE P.Inregards to LEHMANS statements of airport issues,him being a attorney also,could be why it appears he's talking out his tailend,when his mouth knows better.

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CB Resident wrote on Jul 1, 2008 2:28 PM:

I honestly think most of you who are posting should be ashamed of yourselves. You think you know all the facts but you don't, you yell and complain about people who are of no fault in this. (I'm not saying no one is at fault.) How do you think the larger city airports got to the size they are? Did they say "hey lets forego contracting with any other Airline so we won't scare the few we have off" no, it was probably more of a "hey lets get some competion in here so we can lower some prices for the consumers and have more destinations." Come on think about it people have some common sense!!

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John wrote on Jul 1, 2008 2:14 PM:

Steve P., When I re-read Mike Lehman’s comments re: rent, he did not say there were no increases nor did he say they were not factors. He did indicate that the increases were not what was being stated in this comment section. How do you think airport operators meet their expenses if not by passing on their increased costs to those using their facilities? Ask most rental property owners. In addition to the “write off” on their taxes, they recoup part of their costs with increased rent. Basic economics!

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Steve P. wrote on Jul 1, 2008 2:12 PM:

I am printing my sign right now. See you at 5pm Tuesday.

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Opinions are like noses wrote on Jul 1, 2008 2:00 PM:

I often ask myself….why do you read the comments on these articles? Most of what gets said is negative, judgmental, fear-based, self-righteous and filled with gossip. Maybe it is because in some twisted way I find it all quite entertaining. I recently told someone that coming to the Bay Area is like setting your watch back 30 years…I am thinking now I should have said 40!

Kay, from your writing you appear to be an intelligent, well-informed person. But, you really need to get a life outside of these comments and The Forum. Seriously, over 900 postings since March!!??!! Geez!

I realize that my comments will likely draw some derision, judgment, etc., etc., etc., … bring it on! It will only serve to entertain me for the remainder of the week.

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SQUONK wrote on Jul 1, 2008 1:43 PM:

EPIC FAIL!!1111one
But it's not funny.

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Sheila wrote on Jul 1, 2008 12:02 PM:

Who says we CAN'T attend the party tonight?

On the sidewalk, with signs....

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Steve P. wrote on Jul 1, 2008 11:58 AM:

Rent was an issue Lehman. Two stories in Tuesday's World refute your statements in this blog/thread/post. How can we believe anything you say.

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Resident wrote on Jul 1, 2008 11:19 AM:

To Esya--Porter Stage Line is still a good service. Hopefully some public official won't run this company out. They take a van twice a day to Eugene for $58 round trip. So if you still want to move to a place where public officials don't mind robbing citizens and people are rude...welcome!

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Kay wrote on Jul 1, 2008 10:27 AM:

OMG!!IN THE KNOW: Please ! I beg you, don't
EVER mention building a football stadium here again, even in jest. My goodness, Ronnie Opitz his own self may be reading this!! If not yet, he's sure to jump on that one ! Gawd help us all.

Trojan Warriors there big guy? THIS 'cover' failed bigtime !

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Esya wrote on Jul 1, 2008 10:22 AM:

I have been wanting to find a way to get in and out of Coos Bay easily for sometime, to allow me to live here. The beauty of the Horizon schedule was its practicality; the SFO flights appear to be set up for residents of San Fran to do business here and go home. They are not set up for residents of NB/CB area to bring money in without expensive overnights in SF.

No train, no bus, no plane--it all makes my preferred location a very hard sell to friends and family.

Sadly I'd just got an Alaskan Airlines membership in anticipation of being able to use it a lot with the Horizon flights.

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Steve P. wrote on Jul 1, 2008 10:21 AM:

I want an immediate independent inquiry the Coos County Airport District’s commission and others involved with the Coos County Airport District, including the Executive Director of the Coos County Airport District, as to prior to the official announcement by Horizon on Friday, who knew, what they knew, and when they knew it. This came up prior to starting construction and again at the last meeting. Why did they forge ahead anyway, and why did they vote the wage and salary increases anyway? Why did they accept funds from the taxpayers of this state for the tower and other items when they were advised, prior to the Governor’s visit, of Horizons selling of the aircraft used at NB and the likelihood they would pull out? They knew! Still in their arrogance they forge ahead with their invitation only party. I want answers. Honest answers. I want to know how much they charged Horizon for the new terminal presence. As a taxpayer in the district I have a right to call for this investigation. I want to know if there is any dereliction of duty by the elected commission and the employees of the airport.

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Not Surprised wrote on Jul 1, 2008 8:45 AM:

To Broken Hearted: The attitude of "Greedy Bandon Dunes..." is exactly what keeps this area from prospering, if it was not for Bandon Dunes & The Mill this area would have absolutely nothing for Upscale tourist. The people that the Dunes & Mill employ would also be unemployed,working at Burger King,or on welfare. Stop living in the past or you will destroy the area with your backwards thinking & turn it into an even more financially depressed area than it is...

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I FLEW AWAY wrote on Jun 30, 2008 10:40 PM:

Good day, goodnight, and goodbye Coos Bay. The inability of Coos Bay and North Bend residents to cooperate, communicate, and jointly work towards common goals has been a disappointment for years. As a person who grew up in the area, attended college, returned for 15 years and subsequently left - I can say that I felt like an outsider when I was there. I refused to adopt the "beaten down" attitude so prevalent among the die hard locals. To the leaders who must now add this hurdle to their list of challenges - I wish you the best - but you are Spartans fighting an army who can see no farther than the sand that surrounds the bay. If you build it, they will come, but only if they can get there. Good luck in your endeavours to connect Coos Bay to the outside world.

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Broken Hearted wrote on Jun 30, 2008 10:38 PM:

I'm so sad about the loss of Horizon Air. It's just all about greed. Bandon Dunes and the Coos County Airport board just had to have more. More flights going south, taking away from Horizon revenue, a new airport adding to Horizon's rent and then subsidizing SkyWest. Is the flight south really going to be profitable enough for SkyWest to stay after the money is gone? Could that have been the reason Horizon chose not to accept the southern route?
I know that the increased fuel prices and discontinuing of the Q200 aircraft must have been the biggest factor for Horizon, but to hit them when they were down just seems to be such a shame. Could there be more negotiating? Let’s hope so.

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Fred wrote on Jun 30, 2008 8:35 PM:

I was at a Dept. of Aviation board meeting in Feb 2007 when Horizon indicated that North Bend was a threated market because of them shifting to larger Q400 aircraft, and Mr. Lehman was there also. This project could have been stopped before ground was broken. What a waste.

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justwantthetruth wrote on Jun 30, 2008 7:49 PM:

Mr. Lehman, tell the truth! You knew about the "strong possibility" of Horizon pulling out months ago! Mr LeTellier was warned that he was pricing Horizon right out of the area if he continued with his grandiose plans! You know the numbers, to call the increase relatively small is an out and out lie! You and your cohorts have let down everyone in the area and especially the employees of Horizon Air!

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InTheKnow wrote on Jun 30, 2008 7:07 PM:

To bad someone at The World couldn't have done some real investagating before writing these articles. Yes fuel prices and the lack of passengers in the winter months are weighing heavy. but no mention of the over 800% increase in rent each month? Mr. Lehman tell the truth! Mr. Letellier you should be embarrassed for building a great big beautiful new terminal with no airline committed. SkyWest is being subsidised for now, do you really think they are going to pay this absurd rent when they have to foot the bill after the govermnet funding runs out? What next? Are you going to bulid a Football Stadium even though there is no team..... Shame on you!

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jamesaanthonypatrickfrederick wrote on Jun 30, 2008 6:20 PM:

Yep, all my names Mr. Lehman. My mother went a bit crazy at christening time. With this World newspaper format for electronic comment, unlike other Lee papers, how do we know that Lehman is really Lehman? Mr. Lehman, not to worry. We have lived as permanent residents in cities on five continents. We have lived where people would kill for an opportunity to run for elected office. Your job is safe. Here people just complain and refuse to run for office where they might be able to affect the change that they seek.

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disappointed wrote on Jun 30, 2008 4:25 PM:

This board has proved itself time and time again. It has proven what to much ego will do to an entity. This board needs to be recalled. Mr. Letellier has tried to lead these people in a positive direction, but their ego wont allow themselves to listen to some one who knows the field of aviation. I can see why Horizon is upset at OUR BOARD.

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Just me no name wrote on Jun 30, 2008 4:14 PM:

Yes, about that private party, all us taxpayers should be invited to it, since now we will probably never have a chance to see the terminal because we will have no reason to go to an airport with no airplanes to fly out on.
How about some champaigne for us little people that make these big projects possible for you BIG PEOPLE ?

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TAXPAYER wrote on Jun 30, 2008 4:10 PM:

Mr. Lehman, whats with the y'all, you think we are all a bunch of hicks you can talk down to ? You are just another one of the local city idiots that spend all our taxpayer money on stupid projects, that you think will do "what" for our cities ? None of you have come up with anything to "help" our economy or help with anything, other than silly expensive projects, like for instance the "Hollering Place Project" that will cost so much money and be put in Empire where there is not one thing in that town, for anyone to want to stop there for.
You said "still working" on flights out of here, does that mean you did know about this awhile back and had already started working on it.
And who cares about our "real names", you think if we put our real names we won't say such "bad things" about y'all IMPORTANT PEOPLE ? ? ?
Now get busy and DO SOMETHING ABOUT GETTTING US OUT OF THIS TOWN on some kind of commercial vehicle....planes, trains, or bus service would be nice.

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everyman wrote on Jun 30, 2008 3:11 PM:

BRING THE ANARCHY!! Let the liberal, blood-sucking taxmongers continue their rampage to evacuate the south coast! Then all that will be left will be latte stands and snowy plovers. Oh, and a multi-million dollar airport with no service providers...BRING THE ANARCHY!!!

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Republican Girl wrote on Jun 30, 2008 2:04 PM:

Mr.Lehman, you should be ashamed to go ahead with your private party on July 1'st.

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Whats New wrote on Jun 30, 2008 1:08 PM:

Same ole thing for Coos/North Bend, when there is no industry to support an area what do you need an airport for anyway, keep on going the way we are and this area will be nothing but unemployed crack heads on welfare...

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Steve P. wrote on Jun 30, 2008 1:05 PM:

Exactly what were the increases Mike. And Steve P. is my real name, just as I suspect most of the others used their real names also. You seem pretty defensive for an elected official. The commission dropped the ball. This is inexcusable.

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everyman wrote on Jun 30, 2008 1:00 PM:

Hahahahahahahahahahahahah!!!!

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Kay wrote on Jun 30, 2008 12:40 PM:

Okay, without mentioning the alimentary canal of a rat, maybe I can get this posted. Lehman, thank you for coming on here. Can you please tell us exactly how much rent and ALL other fees to Horizon did consist of? Thanks.

Also, without once again mentioning the alimentary canal of a rat, please don't discuss Klamath Falls here, I don't think we taxpayers are too keen on giving a "hoot" about that issue.

Also, please state to us the increase in janitorial fees versus what we are paying now. Thanks, I think I heard it wrong on Ch 14.

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NB RESIDENT wrote on Jun 30, 2008 12:24 PM:

This is pretty sad news for the NB/CB area. I hope that something can be resolved soon as commercial air service to the Portland area has been crucial for the local economy for a long time. The south bound air service will be nice, but it would be wonderful to offer both a northbound and southbound
air carrier into and out of our local area.

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Kay wrote on Jun 30, 2008 12:21 PM:

Okay Lehman, I do respect you showing up here, but would you kindly tell us exactly how much you increased their fees? Please?

Also, please tell us the increase in janitorial expenses you just authorized from what you are paying now.

Thank you, but one more thing, I don't give a rats arse about Klamath Falls, okay? Please don't try to justify by bringing them up.

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Not Surprised wrote on Jun 30, 2008 12:00 PM:

Every area needs some type of "industry" to keep it afloat. Coos Bay/North Bend has been losing 1 chance after another 2 help the area. Now it seems the only "industry" around is meth producing crack heads..nice job City-County Officials. Whatever the welfare to working class ratio is now will be even lower in the future. What do the youth of the area have to look forward to besides leaving the area?

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Resident wrote on Jun 30, 2008 11:52 AM:

When will we embrace that we are part of a small area? If we would stop taxing our people to become like big cities--with a pipeline, fancy airport, and remodeled mall--our own people would be better off. If the mall remodel resulted in any increase of fees to its tenants (as there are rumors of) than some of our shopping places could disappear too.

At least we still have Porter Stage, which will eliminate the parking fee at the Eugene airport for me.

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Lehman wrote on Jun 30, 2008 11:46 AM:

1. Unlike some of you - not afraid to sign my name

2. Hate to confuse y'all with facts - rent increase numbers are flat WRONG. Relatively small increases to Horizon - more importantly no increases in KFalls and they cut them too.

3. Over last several months all kinds of rumors about flights but we did not know they were stopping flights until Friday (I heard it directly and not on the internet as implied).

4. When the decision to build the terminal was made - no indication Horizon would pull out and fuel prices were half what they are now.

5. Take a deep breath before you jump off a cliff or throw us off - we are still working to get flights to Portland.

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Kay wrote on Jun 30, 2008 11:10 AM:

Why remove this from an easily seen site?

Your readers obviously are interested.

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Barbara wrote on Jun 30, 2008 10:57 AM:

This is so unfortunate for our area...having access to Portland from here vs. driving to Eugene made traveling more "user friendly" and cut out additional driving time/costs. I hope the focus of what the expansion to our facilities was geared towards is realized and not at the expense of local travelers.

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Steve P. wrote on Jun 30, 2008 10:52 AM:

I understand there is a meeting Wednesday.

"The World" let us down reporting this and not having someone handle comments before they grew stale. Maybe they should do a reprint in the hard copy version and include the comments so the rest of the community knows how we feel.

As I said "Enjoy your invitation only party the 1st of July."

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fancy wrote on Jun 30, 2008 10:46 AM:

This community should be OUTRAGED!

The property taxes WE have to pay to build this?
Nice offices, nice building, nice pay raises, nice parties.
Oh, it's a public paid/private party.
And to run off Horizon?

This community deserves honest answers for it's money.

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TAXPAYER wrote on Jun 30, 2008 10:34 AM:

Actually all our county officials, commissioners, airport board, Letiellier, mayors, city councilors, heads of all cities, etc. SHOULD ALL BE FIRED. I AM SICK AND TIRED OF ALL THE DOWNRIGHT REDICULOUS THINGS GOING ON IN THIS COUNTY. THEY ARE ALL A BUNCH OF DUMB NUTS. NONE OF THEM HAVE DONE ANYTHING WORTHWHILE FOR THESE CITIES FOR SO MANY YEARS, WE ARE GOING DOWN THE DRAIN FAST AND THERE IS NO HOPE LEFT. Can't we get anyone with any brains at all to run (especially North Bend and Coos Bay) our towns. Instead of spending so much money on dumb things like boardwalks in both towns, and silly pretty things, get us some transportation out of town. Work on something that makes sense. You jerks running things, get a brain and quit your jobs, you are worthless......

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Coos Bay Kid wrote on Jun 30, 2008 10:31 AM:

What a joke. This is a typical result of anything succesful happening to the bay area. You think Home Depot had a clue that his was going to happen? The town that I grew up in is deteriorating at a fast pace. I'm so glad I'm out of that area. It's even painful to visit. Got a nice casino though.

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Kay wrote on Jun 30, 2008 10:30 AM:

I didn't think this Airport Board could shock me again. Bob, maybe it has something to do with increasing their MONTHLY rent from $1,100.00 per month to $110,000 per month !

I hope this isn't true.

I really do, if it is, then instead of Private Little Galas, they better get out the pillory and stocks.

I think the Board is having a meeting on Wednesday, I think maybe we have an obligation to attend and get some answers.

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Fred wrote on Jun 30, 2008 10:29 AM:

This terminal will rank as one of the biggest waste of money ever spent. Airport management knew two years ago that North Bend was a threatend market by Horizon, and a key to staying in the market was to keep the airlines cost down. But this new terminal increased thier costs dramatically, not just in rent, but also operational costs of getting people and luggage up the bluff. Skywest will probably pull out is a year due to low ridership. The termial was forced into play by Bandon Dunes. It should have never been built.

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TAXPAYER wrote on Jun 30, 2008 10:27 AM:

How can we protest and not pay any taxes that pertains to the airport. When we get our property tax bills this next November, and we pay our taxes, we should deduct ANY money that goes to the airport at all. Why should we pay anything when we cannot even have an airplane to fly out of here. That overly expensive terminal has made me mad from the beginning. A complete waste of money and for WHAT? Letiellier and all the airport board SHOULD BE FIRED RIGHT NOW ! ! ! ! !

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Bob M wrote on Jun 30, 2008 10:12 AM:

I find it very difficult to believe it was lack customers that caused Horizon to leave. Maybe their managemant is as inept as the airports. I have waited days for luggage that they could not ship because of a full load of passengers and golf clubs. If you want more flyers then you make room for them and use bigger planes. Didn't the airport just spend additional funds to widen th3e runways to accept larger planes?

I see no excuse for claiming that lack of passengers is the problem. About a year ago they said they cut out one of our trips so that they could send their plane tp Florida for the winter increase in passengers their. Why didn't they bring them back when the overload of golfers returned?

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George wrote on Jun 30, 2008 9:47 AM:

Any chance they might restructure and provide maybe 2 flights a day from and to Portland with a Q400 with 76 passengers?

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Mr Paul wrote on Jun 30, 2008 9:17 AM:

Just another pathetic slap in the face to US. I tell you something, between the meth,jobs,economy, the mills closing, trains not running,fuel costs, police forces being cut, dismissing IF convicting criminals, the roads, cities and counties that DON'T KNOW HOW TO SPEND THEIR MONEY WISELY, and now this!!!!

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Thomas wrote on Jun 30, 2008 7:31 AM:

No big surprise, but ...

... why does The World still bother with this comment feature, when they no longer post any while the articles are current?

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Chris wrote on Jun 29, 2008 10:24 PM:

Wow, what a blow to this area... what a blow... If the planes were larger, couldn't they just cut one or 2 flights out a day.

If they bring the bigger planes in, I'm sure the airport could handle 2 flights a day to San Francisco, 2 a day to Portland and 1 a day to Seattle.

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Frequent Flyer wrote on Jun 29, 2008 2:50 PM:

I would like to know more about Horizon's decision to leave. Does it have anything to do with the huge increase in rent that they are going to be charged at the new airport, while the airport guaranteed a profit to SkyWest for their first year? Please write to your congress members and let's try to prevent this loss of service to our community. If we don't act to encourage State or Federal financial assistance, we may have a new airport and no airline at all in a year or two.

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Susan Kean Walker wrote on Jun 29, 2008 10:22 AM:

Mr. Lehaman takes the word right out of my mouth re: Horizon's cancellation of flights into NB. I would have thought that all the golfers going to Bandon would financially support a flight into NB.
Too bad I have already purchased my airline ticket for my annual trip home for Christmas. Of interest, Horizon has NOT contacted me about the cancellation. Wonder when they planned on doing that?

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Fred wrote on Jun 29, 2008 8:05 AM:

The other shoe should drop within a year. Don't be like the professional politicians. Operate in the real world. San Jose or Oakland are the preferred airports for domestic travel in the other bay area. San Jose area is where the money is and the golfers area. Most people traveling from this bay area are connecting with inexpensive flight to somewhere. Inexpensive airlines Southwest and Alaska from San Francisco is more expensive and a more difficult connection. Driving four hours to Portland for a flight sucks; but, check and see if you wont save hundreds of dollars doing it.

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C Ruddell wrote on Jun 29, 2008 7:38 AM:

I think that when the majority of the public is voting Green, no logging on Federal forests, no drilling on Federal lands offshore Oregon and other States, or ANWR there is a lack of supply of lumber and petroleum to support infrastructure in our community.
We do not have Rail service and soon no functional Air service.

Who is voting Green you ask? Maybe you and your neighbor is my response.

Carlos

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flynonfriendlyskys wrote on Jun 29, 2008 3:32 AM:

I fly in alot..
what SUCKS is when you fly in to San Fran then fly OVER NB airport to PDX then get on another plane back to NB airport.. now what? will we have to fly in to San Fran and then over NB and PDX to get to Seattle then back down to NB thats a waste..of fuel and my time on that airlines again.. Next time I will fly in to PDX or SEA and TAKE the train to Eugene and get someone to pick me up..cheaper to pay for gas ..I mean It SUCKS to WAVE at YOUR HOMETOWN on your way by IT when you want to be there..not fly over it!

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NB Reader wrote on Jun 28, 2008 7:48 PM:

This has been coming for months - If nobody on the Board or Mr. LeTellier didn't see this coming they should all resign immediately... but wait... they'll all be too busy this week patting themselves on the back celebrating the "new & improved" airport.

Sky West is only flying into NB until the government subsidy they are set to receive runs out... oh yeah... and how about that $250K of extortion money the Board voted to give Sky West after they threatened to pass NB by... We are now going to have the shiniest new airport on the south coast with no commercial airline service... in a few months you'll be reminded of how great it is every time you see your property tax bill... hopefully the Board will not renew the Airport Director's contract at the end of the month and we can start planning on how we are going to use the new "Coos County Community Center"... at least we'll know that you can throw a good party there!

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Mike wrote on Jun 28, 2008 3:57 PM:

Lets get real.... It has to do compitition! The flights in and out of North Bend are almost always full, so it is not a lack of consumers. This is where our community leaders need to offer something, lower the landing fee, offer a temp tax break, something that will keep this Airline from leaving. This will hurt Bandon, Coos Bay, North Bend, EVERYONE! How many of these people are going to relocate? More on unemployment. CITY LEADERS need to act and act fast!

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Mike Funnell wrote on Jun 28, 2008 2:36 PM:

Bad news for the coast. Did the airport board of commissioners ever think about having a long term contract with the airlines prior to building a multi-million dollar terminal. What the hell are they thinking. The Southern Oregon Coast will not succeed as long as we have incompetent managers pulling the stings and spending public funds. If a private business had this type of lack of planning, the CEO and several management levels would be fired. The airport manager and the airport board needs to be replaced with competent citizens.

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Darin wrote on Jun 28, 2008 2:24 PM:

Is Coos County ever going to take a step forward without sliding back two steps. No one's fault, but sure is discouraging.

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Jan wrote on Jun 28, 2008 2:02 PM:

isn't that interesting.. I bet Bandon Dunes is plowing up their own landing strip as i read this article !!

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Kay wrote on Jun 28, 2008 1:35 PM:

Whew ! I'm sure glad the Board just gave it's employees a cost of living raise !

I've got an idea ! Why don't we all just pay millions of dollars to SkyWest, paying for all the seats for six months, so they'll come in here and fly north?

Oh, my bad, we've already done that, right?

I cannot believe this situation was allowed to happen, I'm really floored.

Hey, give me over $600,000.00 for six months and I'll promise ya the moon!

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Mr E wrote on Jun 28, 2008 12:22 PM:

Somewhat serves everyone right... build the nice fancy airport, and lose the most important carrier in the region.

Maybe, instead of having a couple fancy galas, people should be working their butts off to get a new service provider from either Portland or Eugene to North Bend. Even if it's a once-a-week flight on a slightly larger plane or something temporary.

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Flyer wrote on Jun 28, 2008 12:22 PM:

I don't understand how they could have built such an expensive new terminal and not have had some idea that Horizon was planning on maybe pulling out of NB. I am wondering why that terminal was built with a very questionable small plane going to San Francisco and no planes going North. There is usually some talk of a possible pull out like this before it actually happens.
I hope Letellier is working really hard at finding a new airline to service our area. We are really an isolated area with no transportation of any kind. People that do not drive will have an impossible task of getting out of here, and going anyplace.

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Frank wrote on Jun 28, 2008 11:25 AM:

no logs, no ships, no trains, no Carrisa, and now no planes. Sounds like we are headed in the right direction if you are a tree hugger who thinks the beautiful birds, trees, and sand is going to support family wages. Maybe we should pump all the sand back in the bay that has been dredged out so we can add "no bay" to the list above. Perhaps we could remove the big bridge to keep all those dirty tourists out as well--oh wait-they support our minumim wage jobs that we have grown to cherish so much:(

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Bob M wrote on Jun 28, 2008 11:15 AM:

I hear a rumor that the airport board has raised the landing fees for commercial planes to several hundred dollars a plane. Is this a factor in Horizons decision? Are tey going to charge the same amount to United??

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kem wrote on Jun 28, 2008 11:02 AM:

there goes another link to the "outside".First the railroad, now the major airline to Portland...Have you ever driven to Eugene to catch a flight and put your vehicle in long term parking- the cost is enormous...

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Kay wrote on Jun 28, 2008 11:00 AM:

Lehman said there is a direct link to fuel prices, and officials had feared something like this for months. Another big factor was the drop-off of winter tourism on the South Coast.

“Long-term, we’ll probably be OK,” Lehman said. “Short term — it’s just emotional. It’s not panic time. It’s just doggone-it time.”

Let me get this straight, you "knew about this threat for months?" And you just kept spending?

And you call this "doggone it time"?

I beg to differ, how bout "tail wagging the dog time"?

I can't believe these quotes from the biggest spenders I've ever seen.

So giving back the $624,000.00 the Gov just handed you?

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NB wrote on Jun 28, 2008 10:48 AM:

I knew it, I knew it, a big expensive terminal with no airplanes coming in. Wow, who's idea was it again to build this big multi-million dollar terminal? ? ? ? Boy we have some real smart officials in this area.

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