For Immediate Release:
March 14, 2025

Agreement Reached Between Monmouth County Commissioners and Monmouth Executive Airport
The two will establish a framework for maintaining and improving airport operations

FREEHOLD, NJ – Monmouth County Commissioner Director Thomas A. Arnone and Monmouth Executive Airport Owner Alan Antaki met last week with their respective counsel to discuss the future of the airport. Their aim was to share concerns and identify common goals and to ensure that the airport will continue to flourish and serve as an airport and regional jet center for the County.

With this new collaborative relationship, the Monmouth County Board of Commissioners introduced a Resolution on Thursday, March 13, to conclude the discussion surrounding the County’s interest to acquire the airport by eminent domain.

“This meeting marked an important step forward in our path to securing a brighter future for Monmouth Executive Airport,” said Commissioner Director Arnone. “Preliminary findings from our outside consultant Merchant Aviation, together with recent positive updates, give us the assurances we needed. In the last five months, we have learned that Mr. Antaki has secured the financing to retire his outstanding debt, received a $1M grant for repairs and enhancements to the airport’s runway, and has made a commitment to ensure the airport remains an airport for years to come.”

Among key topics discussed was the County’s proposal to establish joint programs between Monmouth Executive Airport and Brookdale Community College to provide students with hands-on training for careers in all facets of airport operations. The idea was readily supported by Mr. Antaki who has for many years promoted aviation education in Monmouth County by personally assisting Boy Scouts earn their aviation merit badges at the Airport and funding introductory flight lessons for Wall Township middle and high school students. Mr. Antaki sees a joint program with Brookdale Community College as an opportunity to continue offering educational opportunities for young adults in Monmouth County.

Other topics included:
• Granting the County a “right of first refusal” to ensure the property remains an airport for generations to come.
• Exploring additional community programs to enhance public engagement.
• Supporting the county’s emergency medical service MEDSTAR program.
• Providing a letter of support to advance additional financing opportunities for runway and taxiway improvements and the construction of new hangars, among other amenities.

As part of the recent New Jersey State budget, Monmouth Executive Airport applied for and has received a $1M grant for repairs and enhancements to the airport’s runway. This improvement is one that has been welcomed by the County and Antaki.

“We welcome this new chapter with Monmouth County and share a commitment to making Monmouth Executive Airport an even greater asset to the community for generations to come,” said Antaki. “Our investments in infrastructure and training will benefit both aviation professionals and local businesses, and I am proud to share it with all who utilize, work for, and live near Monmouth Executive Airport.”

The County’s outside expert aviation firm Merchant Aviation has been directed to conclude its report, which is expected to identify other opportunities for the parties to collaborate in the future.

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