Mohave County Supervisors Call for Resignation of Airport Authority Leadership
Mohave County Supervisors Ron Gould and Rich Lettman are formally requesting the immediate resignation of three top officials from the Mohave County Airport Authority (MCAA): President William Osborne, Treasurer Frank Stepongzi, and Secretary Roger Dawes. The request follows a series of troubling actions and statements that have undermined public confidence, breached professional standards, and potentially violated Arizona Open Meeting Laws.
Supervisor Gould and Supervisor Lettman cited multiple concerns, including:
- Derogatory and unprofessional remarks directed at the Mohave County Board of Supervisors by MCAA President William Osborne, who, in an email, characterized a resolution of displeasure from the Board as unworthy of attention, stating he "disposed of the notice" and mocked the Board's competency.
- Possible Arizona Open Meeting Law violations, specifically referencing private discussions related to public business — including the development of a fuel farm — being scheduled at a private residence, with multiple Board members and outside the view of the public.
“Arizona open meeting laws are not suggestions; they are the law. These alleged actions represent a clear breach of public trust and the ethical obligations held by those in positions of public responsibility,” said Supervisor Ron Gould. “It is not acceptable for leadership of a public-private entity to disregard lawful oversight and transparency.”
Supervisor Lettman added, “The Board of Directors must be held to the highest standards of accountability. Scheduling off-the-record business discussions in private homes not only raises serious legal questions but also erodes public confidence in their capacity by Bullhead City businesses and the community.
The Board of Supervisors has referred the matter to the appropriate legal counsel for review and is exploring all options for ensuring the Mohave County Airport Authority operates with transparency, professionalism, and in full compliance with Arizona’s Open Meeting Law.
Mohave County remains committed to supporting strong, ethical governance in all public and quasi-public entities serving the residents of the region.