There appears to be fewer problems involving air quality in the basement offices at the Rhinelander-Oneida County Airport.
Air quality became an issue a few years back when UW-Extension staff reported they were made uncomfortable by the exhaust from airplanes arriving and going at the airport. The diesel exhaust from the jets was getting sucked into the ventilation system. In March, work was completed on an upgraded ventilation system that was said to cut the amount of fumes in the basement offices.
At an Oneida county committee meeting this week, County Extension head Lynn Feldman told the committee they have had some reports but not like it was before the system was upgraded...
"....we did have six reports regarding air environment quality. We're in that time of year, in winter. Each of those times was when we had a northwest wind, and considering this past month...as cold as it has been... and with the amount of wind associated with that...."
She says at it's peak, staff was smelling the exhaust every day.
Also at the meeting, new Oneida County Fair Director Thomas Barnett was introduced. Barnett is the author and illustrator of the 'Bob The Hodag' books. He told the committee he was enthused about the new job...
"....I moved up here about three or four years ago. Fell in love with Rhinelander a long time ago and when we made the move we decided Rhinelander was the place to be. I'm very community oriented with my children's books. I spend a lot of time in the schools with the children reading my books to them and helping out wherever I can. I like to donate my time because I have a very flexible schedule...and very excited to be in the position I'm in right now...."
Barnett will be a part-time contracted employee. Barnett replaces Nancy Gehrig, who stepped down after having been the coordinator since 2013.
