From left, Vice Mayor Ed McKervey, Field Rep for Congressman Valadao Rachel Clement, Congressman David Valadao, Mayor Greg Meister, and Interim City Manager Rich Tree. Photo via City of Porterville

Local leaders met with Rep. David Valadao Wednesday to discuss expansion of the Porterville Municipal Airport to bolster the region’s ability to combat wildfires and manage U.S. lands.

Porterville Mayor Greg Meister, Vice Mayor Ed McKervey and Interim City Manager Rich Tree met with Valadao along with his Field Representative Rachel Clement to discuss the potential of airport expansion and to celebrate the nation’s oldest Veteran’s Day parade. The meeting also underscored the city’s unique role in regional safety, as well as its economic growth and community tradition, according to a news release from the city.

The expansion of the airport is a major priority for the city in terms of economic growth; supporting the needs of the U.S. Forestry Service and CalFire Air Attack positions the city for future air freight operations and has the potential to attract regional distribution centers, according to the release.

Additionally, leaders also discussed the widening of Highway 65, Highway 190 and Spruce Road, aiming to reduce congestion and strengthen regional mobility.

“Our role as City staff is to carry out the Mayor and City Council’s vision,” said City Manager Tree. “These discussions help ensure we have the tools and support needed to make that vision a reality for the people of Porterville.”

Along with discussions of infrastructure, leaders also addressed the topic of denied FEMA funding for a critical river embankment project; during flooding in 2023, 11,000 cubic feet per second of water threatened neighborhoods such as Rio Vista, where water erosion claimed some residents’ backyards.

Valadao was asked to advocate for FEMA funding to help protect from future flood damage.

“We are committed to building a stronger Porterville, and that requires the right resources and partnerships,” Meister said. “Congressman Valadao’s support is vital to moving our projects forward and securing long-term benefits for our residents.”

Wednesday’s meeting also saw the leaders discuss recognitions of the 100th anniversary of Porterville’s charter status and the 250th anniversary of American independence. Marking these milestones, the city continues its revitalization of Main Street, repaving roads, planting new trees and completing various improvements around the city.