The Tennessee Senate Finance Committee Has Passed Amended Legislation That Will Enable The Creation Of An Airport Authority At Tri-Cities Regional. The Tri Is Currently Governed By A 12 Member Commission Appointed By Its Owners – Washington And Sullivan Counties, Kingsport, Johnson City And Bristol Tennessee/Virginia. Airport Officials Have Wanted The Authority To Address Liability And Long-Term Financing Issues But Admit It Has Worked Out Well The Way It Is. Any Changes Would Have To Come From Airport Owners.