Frequently Asked Questions
Q. When was the Airpark first established?
A. SHSA was formally established in 2004 by our Founder - Dr. Paul J. Sullivan. Construction of the 1st hangar, commonly known as the “Taj Ma Paul” began in 2011. Phase 2 Craftsman Style hangar homes were added beginning in 2014 and 2016.
Q. What entity controls the Airpark and attends to its common needs?
A. SHSA is managed by a Home Owners Association with its elected annually Officers. The Association is tasked with managing the Airpark in accordance with its bylaws. Construction and planning is regulated by its Manager as per the published construction guidelines and requirements.
Q. Is the Airpark noisy?
A. At times the roar of a departing jet will be noticed, usually just busy summer weekends. Most of the time the Airpark is surprisingly silent and is lacking traffic. Just as lakefront homeowners enjoy the noise of passing boats, the air traffic of the Airpark is also enjoyed.
Q. Is the Airpark privately owned?
A. Yes. Airpark lots are privately owned. Common grounds are operated by the Homeowner’s Association. Airport property and operations are independent of the Airpark itself though access to the field is approved via a 25-year rolling lease subject to an annual connection fee.
Q. What are the basic building guidelines for a new residence?
A. Guidelines are available upon request. Short answer - a small hangar with attached or adjacent living quarters. Sizes from 1,200-sq. ft. to 8,000+ are all viable. The goal of building an appealing residential airpark community governs decisions made in the approval process.
Q. How many lots are in the Airpark?
A. Presently, there are 10-lots either built or construction ready. Longer term plans have considered expansion areas to the northwest.
Q. What sets Sullivan’s Airpark apart from other airpark communities?
A. A lot! Find our more here to see the many amenities that the Harbor Springs area has to offer. Few airparks have such a great combination of location, views and aviation options all wrapped in a unique and exclusive development.
Q. Can you build a hangar only on the properties?
A. No. While most plans will be given preference for style and utility, current bylaws require some residential space in conjunction with an airplane hangar or utility garage.
Q. Are the views from the airpark obstructed?
A. No. Actually, the opposite. Current bylaws allow for added heights which enhance the views of Little Traverse Bay located to the southwest. Furthermore, the open field of the airport itself, greatly enhances the view as trees and vegetation are routinely maintained.
Q. What type of plane will fit in the Airpark?
A. Most cabin class singles and twins will easily operate in and out of the airpark. Small and some mid-size jets have already operated from the airpark. Access options for front row hangar homes do favor larger turboprop aircraft and would be best suited for larger hangars.
Q. What construction / operating covenants are stated in the Master Deed?
A. Must have hangar with living residence of some sort. Cannot operate a for profit business from the residence. Fueling ops offsite. Annual dues are applicable – Airport Authority the SHSA Association.
Q. Are there any regulatory concerns with the FAA or the Airport Authority?
A. Airparks are not uncommon to the FAA and the support of Sullivan’s Harbor Springs Airpark has been steady and without interruption since our inception. A strong 25-year rolling lease with the Airport Authority and FAA Rights Through the Fence interpretations favor a long and uninterrupted operation of the Airpark and its Owners.
Q. What sets KMGN apart from other airports?
A. KMGN is not your average grass field airpark airport! Combine its central location in one of Michigan’s most vibrant areas with airport service and amenities and you will see why this Midwest Airport / Airpark combination is truly unique.
Q. Are there unique attributes to each lot and if so what are they?
A. Though each lot is approx. 1-acre in size, all bring their own charm and appeal. Front row lots favor easy runway access and enhanced southerly views, but back lots provide added affordability, M119 access and added rural settings.
Q. What annual fees are applicable to a homeowner?
A. All properties are subject to annual County Taxes. All properties are also subject to an annual Homeowners Association fee which average ~$65 p/ month for land owners and ~$130 for home owners. Do note that SHSA Association maintains the right for periodic assessments necessary to maintain the integrity, compliance and upkeep of the Airpark’s common areas. Lastly, constructed homes (n/a to lots) are also subject to an annual fee of $1, 193.50 annually, payable to the Airport Authority, per the access terms and conditions of the governing rolling lease.
Q. What is a rough figure for new construction costs?
Our Development Team can review your concept and provide added estimates and suggestions.
Q. Where can I find the latest news, events and updates about Sullivan’s Airpark?
Upcoming Events can be found here. To see the latest action and excitement please follow us on Instagram and Facebook.
Q. Can I build a hangar home in phases?
Yes, provided that 1st phase construction encapsulates the need for a hangar with sufficient living space, even if only a loft or condo style arrangement.
Q. How can I learn more about the design and construction expertise and process?
Are tours or trial stays an option?
A. Please contact the Development Team for additional information or VRBO supported stays. A visit to the Airpark is the only way to really understand all that this development has to offer. Hope to see you soon!
Q: What about electric, water, etc?
A: Each property owner will have their own well on their lot. A local well driller can be
recommended by the developer. The water is high quality. Electric and phone lines (including
high speed internet) have been run UNDERGROUND into Sullivan's Airpark, and are
accessible at the main road. No utility poles will be visible (permitted) in the community.
Sewage is handled by septic tanks and drain fields installed by homeowner. Contractors can
be recommended.
Q: How are the winters?
A. Our community treasures the excellent ski hills and snowmobile trails nearby. Ice skating,
snowshoeing ,and horse drawn sleigh rides are experiences you shouldn't miss. And there's no
better place to spend a white Christmas than here. Snow toppled forests and streets lined with
Christmas lights might just turn winter into your favorite time of the year.