WARREN — Scott Lynn on Wednesday was appointed as a member of the Western Reserve Port Authority board.

Trumbull County commissioners unanimously voted to appoint Lynn to be the commissioner’s choice as a board member because of his background as a pilot and because he previously served as a member of the board. Lynn is a chief pilot of the DeBartolo Corp. and has been a pilot for more than 30 years.

Three people applied for the appointment.

After speaking with four current members of the board and Anthony Trevena, the port authority’s executive director, Commissioner Denny Malloy during the commissioners’ workshop meeting on Tuesday, noted he wanted someone with knowledge of airport operations.

“I was told it would be nice to have someone with airline experience because they do not have anyone with that experience right now,” he said. “Part of the port authority’s responsibility is around the airport and hiring the director of the airport.”

Malloy said the port authority is actively looking to bring a new airline to the airport.

“Not only a new airline, but a net jet facility or some type of private facility where they can repair aircraft on site to go along with the new flight school they have there,” he said.

He noted the airport recently received $5 million from the federal government for runway improvements.

“I want to see the runway used,” Malloy continued. “Not just being the best-looking runway in the state.”

Commissioner Rick Hernandez said the other two candidates also were qualified to serve on the port authority board.

“This resume is a perfect fit,” Hernandez said.

Commissioner Tony Bernard notes that Lynn’s credentials would add to his credibility when dealing with potential airlines that may be interested in coming to the area.

“There are some hurdles in attracting a new airline that must be overcome,” Bernard said. “When getting into active talks, with him being a pilot, he can help along those lines.”