A decision by Morden city council could force a local flight training school to close its doors in the community.

Jim Peters has operated Mountain City Aviation in Morden for just over 15 years. In a prepared statement he says the city has decided not to renew his lease at the Morden airport where his business is located, which will essentially shut down the operation.

"The city of Morden has not given us any reason as to why they refuse to renew the lease," says Peters. "By not renewing the lease, they are taking away our livelihood, the opportunity for people to learn to fly and take scenic aerial tours and will ultimately be shutting down a Transport Canada Regulated Educational facility. Our employees will lose their jobs as well."

Peters says he just wants a fair deal so that he can continue to operate at the airport, but claims his attempts to work out a lease agreement have been turned down by the city.

"We have contacted the city in an attempt to re-negotiate terms of a new lease, but they continue to refuse any attempts at negotiating a new lease."

The city of Morden also issued a prepared statement confirming that Mountain City Aviation's lease expired on February 18, 2020, and that it has not been renewed.

"Mr. Peter's lease at our airport ... was not renewed as it was in severe default at that time. Council of the city of Morden has been in regular communication with Mr. Peters since that time to determine how to move forward in a sustainable way, including continuing to offer for lease a portion of the space previously occupied."

Both sides have engaged legal counsel and the city of Morden says any discussion on the matter with Mr. Peters moving forward will be done through legal channels.

Peters says it's regretful that he's in this position and hopes that making the community aware of the situation will generate support for his cause.